Mason Greenwood, a promising 21-year-old footballer, finds himself apprehensive about his chances of a fresh start in Saudi Arabia following his unfortunate comments regarding the esteemed career of his former Manchester United teammate, Cristiano Ronaldo.
Expressing his views on Ronaldo’s performance during his tenure at Real Madrid, Greenwood unwittingly ignited a firestorm that threatens to tarnish his own future.
Despite later moving to Juventus and making a triumphant return to Old Trafford in September 2021, Greenwood’s remarks surfaced in March, coincidentally just three months after Ronaldo, now aged 38, joined Saudi team Al-Nassr in a groundbreaking £350 million deal.
The revelation angered Ronaldo, who vehemently advised league officials against considering any move involving his former associate.
Sources close to the situation reveal that Ronaldo, renowned for his sensitivity, was genuinely irked by Greenwood’s statement.
Understandably so, given the monumental achievements Ronaldo has amassed throughout his illustrious career, juxtaposed with the less enviable position in which Greenwood currently finds himself.
It appears that Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United had hindered Greenwood’s playing time, creating strain within their relationship.
As the first superstar to venture into the Saudi league, Ronaldo wields considerable influence and is treated with utmost reverence.
Insiders suggest that the Portuguese maestro could potentially dissuade clubs from pursuing Greenwood if he so desired, such is his sway in the kingdom.
Moreover, it seems Saudi league administrators are hesitant to make any advances towards Greenwood, particularly due to concerns surrounding the already beleaguered image of the country.
A prominent figure within the Saudi Premier League expressed that it would be “very surprising” if any attempts were made to secure Greenwood’s services, citing the significant impetus placed on women’s football in the nation.
The past year witnessed an 86% rise in registered female players, culminating in the imminent commencement of the second season of the Saudi women’s league, where women play without head coverings and male fans actively attend matches.
While clubs from Turkey and Italy have previously shown interest in Greenwood, Serie A side Roma, managed by former Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho, distanced itself from any potential association with the player.
Furthermore, Steven Gerrard, the ex-Liverpool and England midfielder who now manages Saudi club Al-Ettifaq, dismissed claims of his interest as “fake news.”
