Mason Greenwood: Jose Mourinho Offers Roma Lifeline to Manchester United Striker
Introduction
Jose Mourinho has reached out to Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood to offer him a lifeline at Roma next season. Greenwood has not played for United since January 2022 after being charged with rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault. Those charges were dropped in February but Greenwood has remained under suspension by United who have been conducting their own investigation into his conduct. Recent reports have suggested United manager Erik ten Hag is reluctant to offload the 21-year-old on a permanent basis and feels a loan move is the best solution for him heading into the 2022-23 season.
Mourinho’s Relationship with Greenwood
While Greenwood did not make his senior debut until after Mourinho’s departure from Old Trafford in December 2018, he was firmly part of the manager’s long-term plans. Mourinho included Greenwood in his pre-season tour of the US in July 2018, giving him his non-competitive debut that summer. Greenwood signed his first professional contract with the club in the months that followed, frequently training with the senior side and was included in the match day squad for a Champions League group stage clash with Valencia.
United legend Nicky Butt, who served as the club’s head of academy during Greenwood’s rise through the youth ranks, commented in 2021 that the Portuguese was so impressed with the youngster he wanted him to join the first-team picture aged just 15. ‘He asked, “Who is this kid Greenwood?” when Mason was 15. He said, “Bring him to train with us”, and I said, “We can’t, because he’s at school and there are rules”.’
Roma Loan Move
According to The Sun, former United boss Mourinho has been in contact with Greenwood to discuss joining the Serie A side on loan. A source told the newspaper: ‘Jose rang Mason’s dad and also spoke with Mason. He told him the best way out of his current situation is to start playing football — and that eventually all the hassle will fade away. ‘Mason was pleased that he got in touch and it has lifted his spirits. He wants to get back playing and is just waiting for United to tell him what the future holds.’ Two other Italian clubs are said to be interested in signing Greenwood on loan this summer.
Conclusion
Greenwood has not played football in 18 months and is desperate to get back on the pitch. Mourinho’s offer of a loan move to Roma could be the perfect opportunity for him to do just that. With two other Italian clubs also interested, it remains to be seen where Greenwood will end up next season.