Mason Greenwood Marseille Adventure Could Lose a Familiar Face
Mason Greenwood may be about to lose a compatriot at Marseille, with England U21 star Jonathan Rowe seeing a summer transfer mooted.

Mason Greenwood Marseille Adventure Could Lose a Familiar Face

English Team-Mate Jonathan Rowe Tipped to Leave Marseille After Just One Season

When Mason Greenwood made his move to Marseille last year, he wasn’t the only Englishman settling into life in the south of France. Alongside him, young winger Jonathan Rowe also traded familiar Premier League surroundings for a new challenge in Ligue 1. But while Greenwood’s debut season was marked by stunning goals and golden boot glory, it seems his compatriot might already be packing his bags.

According to reports in France, Marseille are now willing to listen to offers for Rowe—a somewhat surprising turn of events given the permanent deal they only just completed. The 22-year-old, who graduated from Norwich City’s academy and recently celebrated international success with England’s Under-21s, could be on the move once again.

From Norwich to Marseille: A Bold Leap That Paid Off – Temporarily

Rowe made the switch to Marseille last summer, initially joining on loan. The French side clearly saw something they liked, triggering the obligation to buy clause in the deal not long after. For a player who had only just begun to make a name for himself in English football, the move felt brave but promising.

And for the most part, Rowe didn’t disappoint. He featured 30 times in all competitions, scoring three goals and supplying four assists. While those numbers might not jump off the page, his contribution went beyond raw stats. His pace, energy and willingness to take on defenders gave Marseille some much-needed width.

But Ligue 1 can be an unforgiving league, especially for younger players trying to adjust to a new system, culture, and language. And with Roberto De Zerbi now at the helm, it looks like the Italian tactician has different plans for the squad going into the 2025-26 season.

Greenwood’s Rise, Rowe’s Uncertain Future

While Rowe has found himself potentially surplus to requirements, Mason Greenwood has thrived. The former Manchester United forward silenced his doubters with a superb season, sharing the Ligue 1 Golden Boot with PSG’s Ousmane Dembele after both finished the campaign on 21 goals.

Greenwood’s form has made him undroppable—and rightly so. But for Rowe, whose own form was respectable but not spectacular, the stakes are different. New managers often mean new systems, new preferences, and sometimes, casualties. According to French outlet RMC Sport, journalist Fabrice Hawkins reports that Rowe is now considered “disposable” as De Zerbi shapes the squad in his own image.

Turkey Calling? Fenerbahce and Besiktas Both Circling

The potential suitors for Rowe aren’t exactly low-profile. Turkish giants Fenerbahce and Besiktas are both said to be interested in the winger, with the former offering a particularly intriguing opportunity.

If Rowe were to sign for Fenerbahce, he’d be joining a squad coached by none other than Jose Mourinho. The legendary Portuguese manager has taken over at the Istanbul club, and a move there could represent a fascinating next step in Rowe’s still-developing career.

Playing under Mourinho could bring out a more disciplined, tactical edge to Rowe’s game—something that could serve him well if he’s to make the jump to the next level. And with Fenerbahce regularly competing for domestic titles and involved in European competition, it’s not exactly a step down in ambition.

Besiktas, of course, would offer a similarly prestigious platform. Both Istanbul clubs have a strong track record of welcoming Premier League alumni and helping them revive or enhance their careers. Rowe could well be the latest in that line.

A Tale of Two Trajectories

It’s hard not to contrast Rowe’s uncertain future with Greenwood’s ascendant one. Both Englishmen arrived in Marseille with points to prove, and while one has become a central figure, the other could soon be heading elsewhere.

This isn’t necessarily a tale of failure for Rowe. Far from it. His first season in Ligue 1 showed that he can compete at a high level, and interest from clubs like Fenerbahce proves that his stock remains strong. It may simply be a case of timing, system fit, and managerial preference—not a reflection of his talent or work ethic.

And who knows? A move to Turkey might give him exactly the kind of platform he needs to kick on. At 22, time is still firmly on his side.

What’s Next for Mason Greenwood and Marseille?

As for Greenwood, his future looks far more secure. If anything, Marseille will be looking to build around him heading into the new campaign. After a season that saw him rediscover his sharpness, confidence and eye for goal, he’s expected to lead the line once again.

That said, football has a way of surprising even the most settled of players. Marseille have ambitions, and if a massive offer were to come in from one of Europe’s elite, could they resist cashing in on their star striker? Possibly not. But for now, Greenwood seems happy—and Marseille fans will be hoping they can enjoy at least one more season of his magic.

Final Thoughts

Football moves quickly. One minute you’re the exciting new signing, the next you’re being shown the door. Jonathan Rowe’s time at Marseille may be coming to an end, but it doesn’t mean he’s failed. Quite the opposite—he’s earned the attention of big clubs and proven he can handle a move abroad.

Whether he ends up in Turkey or stays put in France, Rowe’s next move will be one to watch. As for Mason Greenwood, Marseille fans will be hoping his strike partner from England sticks around—though the winds of football change fast, and no one is truly safe from the market’s ever-turning wheel.

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