Mason Greenwood made a resounding statement ahead of the new season by netting a rapid-fire hat-trick in just eleven minutes, as Olympique de Marseille thrashed a Dutch third division side in a pre-season friendly that showcased both their attacking potency and Greenwood’s determination to revive his career.
The English forward, who joined Marseille on loan last season and later made the move permanent amid much media attention, looked every bit the player who once dazzled for Manchester United as he tore apart an outmatched Dutch opponent in front of an enthusiastic gathering of Marseille supporters. The friendly, held at Marseille’s training complex, may have been against modest opposition, but Greenwood’s performance gave a clear indication that he is keen to make the upcoming Ligue 1 campaign his own.
The match began with Marseille dominating possession from the first whistle. Manager Roberto De Zerbi, who recently took over with a promise to bring attacking football back to the Stade Vélodrome, sent out a near full-strength side despite the low-profile opponent. It didn’t take long for Marseille’s intentions to become clear. Their crisp passing and relentless pressing pinned the Dutch side back deep into their own half, and the chances came thick and fast.
Greenwood opened the scoring in the 18th minute. After drifting in from the right flank — the position where he has always looked most dangerous — he exchanged a sharp one-two with new signing Ismaïla Sarr before drilling a low, left-footed strike past the helpless goalkeeper. Just four minutes later, he doubled his tally in trademark fashion: cutting inside onto his left foot and curling an unstoppable effort into the far top corner, drawing loud cheers from the small but vocal crowd.
Barely seven minutes later, Greenwood sealed his hat-trick in ruthless style. A defensive error gifted him possession on the edge of the box, and with ice-cold composure he lifted the ball over the onrushing keeper. Three goals in eleven minutes — a reminder of the natural finishing ability that made him one of English football’s brightest young prospects not so long ago.
The hat-trick drew applause from his teammates and a visible nod of satisfaction from De Zerbi on the touchline. For Greenwood, who spent last season regaining his match sharpness after a long period away from top-level football, this pre-season is a chance to reset and prove he can be an integral part of Marseille’s ambitious plans. Despite the friendly nature of the fixture, his intensity and clinical finishing sent a clear message that he is not merely in France to make up the numbers.
The game itself turned into a rout as Marseille ran riot. By half-time, they were four goals up, with Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang adding a fourth from the penalty spot. In the second half, De Zerbi rotated his squad, giving minutes to several academy players and fringe members of the first team, but the attacking momentum continued. By full-time, the scoreline read 7-0 — a ruthless demonstration of the gulf in class.
For Greenwood, the spotlight will inevitably follow him this season. His move to Marseille has divided opinion but also offered him a chance at a fresh chapter. On the pitch, he looks determined to repay the faith shown by the club’s hierarchy and their fans. He finished last season strongly with a handful of goals and assists that helped Marseille secure a Europa League spot. Now, he appears ready to build on that foundation.
Speaking to club media after the match, Greenwood kept his comments brief but positive. “It’s always nice to score goals, but the most important thing is building up fitness and sharpness for the season ahead,” he said. “I’m feeling good, the team is playing great football, and I’m enjoying my football here.”
Manager De Zerbi, who has been tasked with revitalizing Marseille after an inconsistent campaign last year, was quick to praise Greenwood’s professionalism. “Mason is a top player,” he said. “We know his qualities, and we want him to express himself freely. This is just pre-season, but it’s good to see him scoring goals and smiling. We want him hungry and confident.”
Marseille’s fans, meanwhile, will hope that Greenwood’s sharp form carries into the competitive fixtures. With Ligue 1 set to kick off in just a few weeks, and a Europa League campaign to navigate, De Zerbi knows he will need his forwards firing on all cylinders.
For Greenwood, this hat-trick may not count in the record books, but it counts in confidence. In football, momentum can be everything. And for a player with a point to prove and a career to rebuild, an eleven-minute hat-trick — no matter the opponent — could prove to be the perfect spar
k for the season ahead.
