Mason Greenwood has the opportunity to revive his international career with Jamaica after Manchester United terminated his contract this week.
The 21-year-old’s international affiliations have been relatively undisclosed, but he retains the option to switch allegiance from England to Jamaica.
This development follows Manchester United’s decision to end their association with Greenwood, shedding light on his club future more than 18 months after facing charges of attempted rape, controlling behavior, and assault.
In February 2023, the Crown Prosecution Service stated diminished chances of conviction due to key witnesses retracting their statements and the emergence of new material. Despite not being found guilty, Greenwood’s statement this week falsely claimed his freedom.
After a six-month in-house review, Manchester United opted to assist Greenwood in continuing his career elsewhere.
While potential suitors prefer a loan arrangement, there is still a desire for a permanent move. Roma emerges as a possible club, with Jose Mourinho, with whom Greenwood previously worked, possibly providing an opportunity. Other interested teams include Atalanta, Inter, Monaco, and clubs in Germany, Turkey, Spain, and the Saudi Pro League.
Greenwood, with 135 first-team club games before his career disruption, had limited involvement with the England senior team.
His England debut in September 2020 was marred by a breach of Covid-19 quarantine rules, leading to his removal from the team. Despite indications that England manager Gareth Southgate was open to giving Greenwood a second chance, his arrest and charges halted any potential return.
The player’s camp reportedly expressed dissatisfaction with the attention surrounding Greenwood’s call-up without significant playing time.
Although Southgate aimed to reintegrate Greenwood for the 2022 World Cup, the arrest ended those efforts. Since January 22, 2022, Greenwood has not participated in a professional game or trained with a club during Manchester United’s suspension.
There is speculation that Greenwood might opt not to play for England at all, considering his family history, and instead choose to represent Jamaica.
The Jamaica Football Federation has expressed interest since 2021, and Greenwood has been seen sporting the team’s attire. FIFA’s rules permit players to switch teams if they haven’t played more than three competitive senior international games before turning 21; Greenwood was 18 when he made his sole appearance for England.
