Marseille coach Roberto De Zerbi has challenged forward Mason Greenwood to elevate his game further, emphasizing the need for off-ball effort even after the English player’s recent four-goal haul in a French Ligue 1 victory.
Greenwood netted four goals in Marseille’s decisive 6-2 win over Le Havre. This performance matched a 34-year-old record set by former France international Jean-Pierre Papin.
The English forward also reached 27 goals in Ligue 1, drawing level with Glenn Hoddle as the highest-scoring English player in the league’s history.
Despite these achievements, De Zerbi stated Greenwood still has “space to improve.”
The Italian coach specifically highlighted the work rate of other top players. “If he wants to become an even better player, he will have to run without the ball,” De Zerbi said.
He continued, “I see Mbappé and Dembélé pressing without the ball. And he will have to do the same.”
Greenwood’s recent form has been strong, with seven goals and four assists recorded over his last 10 appearances.
De Zerbi acknowledged Greenwood’s natural scoring ability and dedication. “He has always scored many goals and never missed a training session,” the coach noted.
The former Manchester United player’s consistent performance suggests he is integral to Marseille’s attacking strategy. De Zerbi’s comments underscore his high standards for all his players, regardless of their immediate success.