Lorenzi: Greenwood pushed for rapid exit
Marseille sporting director Grégory Lorenzi has disclosed that Mason Greenwood demanded a swift departure from the French club, explaining the circumstances behind the England forward’s €40 million transfer to Fenerbahçe. Speaking during his inaugural press conference at La Commanderie, Lorenzi confirmed that the player wanted to “leave the club as quick as possible” despite restricted transfer opportunities.
The deal, which sees the 24-year-old join the Turkish giants, has drawn criticism from supporters regarding the fee. Lorenzi defended the valuation, insisting the Ligue 1 outfit achieved its objectives. “All I can say is that,” Lorenzi stated, “the club got what it wanted,” addressing claims that the price was too low. He suggested that while Marseille anticipated interest from additional suitors, Fenerbahçe emerged as the “best option” given that it represented the destination the player “absolutely wanted to go to.”
Financial constraints force sales
The departure follows a turbulent campaign for Marseille, who concluded the 2025-2026 season in fifth position. The club’s deteriorating financial position necessitated player sales this summer, with Greenwood’s exit representing a significant piece of business to help stabilise the balance sheet.
Lorenzi acknowledged the complications surrounding the transfer, citing the “complexities of the Greenwood deal” and the “image of the player” as factors that limited options. He noted that “there weren’t a lot of opportunities” available for the forward, reducing Marseille’s negotiating leverage despite his impressive goal record.
Goal-laden spell ends
Greenwood arrived at Marseille in 2024 following a productive loan spell with Getafe, quickly establishing himself as a prolific presence in attack. The forward registered 48 goals across 81 appearances under successive managers Roberto De Zerbi and Habib Beye, form that proved instrumental in securing Champions League qualification during his debut campaign.
However, the subsequent fifth-place finish in the recent season fell short of expectations and proved insufficient to prevent financial restructuring. With the club requiring significant asset sales to address its economic situation, Greenwood’s determination to move to Turkey facilitated a deal that Marseille’s hierarchy ultimately viewed as necessary to meet their strategic requirements.