Marseille president Pablo Longoria has revealed that he consulted his mother before approving the signing of former Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood in 2024, describing the decision as one of the most difficult of his career.
Longoria said the controversial move followed extensive due diligence and deep personal reflection, noting that he wanted advice free from football and commercial interests.
Speaking publicly for the first time on the issue, Longoria said that he disclosed the circumstances surrounding Greenwood’s arrival at the Ligue 1 club last July.
Greenwood, once considered one of the Premier League’s brightest young talents, was suspended by Manchester United in January 2022 after being arrested on suspicion of attempted rape, assault and coercive behaviour. The criminal charges were dropped in February 2023 after prosecutors said key witnesses withdrew their involvement.
The forward did not play again for United and spent the 2023/2024 season on loan at Getafe in LaLiga before completing a permanent move to Marseille, where he has since scored 33 goals in 54 appearances to become the club’s leading scorer.
Explaining his decision, Longoria said he sought the counsel of his mother, Begona Longoria, a former Spanish prison system worker who had received a state honour for her service.
“For me, it’s correct to speak openly about it. Creating taboos in life is never positive,” he said.
“We analysed very carefully what really happened. With all the information, I called my mother and asked her what she would do in my position. She told me to do it.”
Longoria said the advice mattered deeply because he wanted guidance from someone whose only concern was his well-being, not sporting success.
“It was important because I wanted someone who doesn’t have the incentive of the sport. As a man, not as a president. And for me, it was very important that she said, knowing everything, ‘do it’,” he added.
He acknowledged the criticism that followed the signing but said he was at peace with the decision.
“I know there is criticism and reputational risk. But if you believe you are taking the right decision with the right level of information, you can live with it. From that time, I sleep at night,” he said.
Longoria also praised Greenwood’s performances, stressing that his defensive work and maturity on the pitch were as important as his goals.
Greenwood, who has consistently denied the allegations, had earlier said leaving Manchester United was “the best decision for everyone” as he sought to rebuild his career away from England.
Elijah Adeyemi
