Amazing news hits Manchester United fans as Mason Greenwood finalizes a crucial decision regarding a potential Manchester United return as reports confirm ‘paperwork completed’ ahead of a significant transfer.
Mason Greenwood has reportedly finalized the paperwork required to switch his international allegiance from England to Jamaica.
The 23-year-old qualifies to represent Jamaica through his paternal grandparents. FIFA regulations permit the change since Greenwood only featured in one competitive match for England. His sole senior appearance came in September 2020 when Gareth Southgate introduced him as a second-half substitute in a Nations League fixture against Iceland.
At that time, such an appearance would have ruled out a switch to another national team. However, just two weeks later, FIFA revised its eligibility rules, allowing players under 21 who had played fewer than four competitive matches to change allegiance.
The mandatory three-year waiting period for a switch elapsed in early September 2023, and now, according to the Daily Star, Greenwood has officially opted to represent Jamaica.
Reports suggest that the Football Association made it clear he would not be considered for England selection again. Greenwood was suspended by Manchester United in January 2022 following his arrest on suspicion of rape. Later that year, he was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault. He denied all charges, which were eventually dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service.
Following a season-long loan at Getafe, Greenwood permanently departed Manchester United in the summer transfer window, signing with Marseille. Now, in addition to his club switch, he appears to have made an international move as well.
Notably, Jamaica’s head coach, Steve McClaren—who previously served as assistant manager at Manchester United—mentioned during his unveiling that he had spoken to Greenwood before both exited the club. This decision paves the way for a reunion, as Greenwood and McClaren now look forward to achieving success with the Jamaica national team.
Mason Greenwood’s decision to switch his international allegiance to Jamaica marks a significant turning point in his career, both on and off the pitch. The move aligns with FIFA’s revised eligibility rules, which provide opportunities for players under 21 with limited senior appearances to change national teams. Greenwood’s only competitive appearance for England in 2020, combined with the required three-year waiting period, facilitated this transition.
The backdrop to this decision is complex, given his legal and professional challenges. Greenwood’s exclusion from England’s plans and his subsequent departure from Manchester United have reshaped his career trajectory. Signing with Marseille and now committing to Jamaica signal his effort to rebuild his career.
Greenwood’s connection with Jamaica’s head coach, Steve McClaren, adds an intriguing dynamic to his international comeback. Their shared history at Manchester United could help Greenwood integrate smoothly into the Jamaica setup. For Jamaica, his addition offers a significant boost to their attacking options, potentially strengthening their squad ahead of regional and international competitions.
This chapter could be a fresh start for Greenwood as he looks to redefine his legacy on the international stage.
