London, England — Mason Greenwood, the former Manchester United forward, has officially completed the paperwork to change his international allegiance from England to Jamaica, according to talkSPORT.
Greenwood, now playing for Olympique Marseille in Ligue 1, made this decision after being informed by the English Football Association (FA) that he would not be considered for future selection. The FA cited concerns about the negative publicity his inclusion could generate, effectively ending his international career with England after just one appearance in September 2020.
The 23-year-old was suspended from football in January 2022 after being charged with attempted rape, assault, and coercive behavior. While Greenwood denied all charges, the case was dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in February 2023. Despite this, the FA maintained its stance on his exclusion.
Greenwood qualifies to represent Jamaica through his father and is eligible to switch allegiances under FIFA rules. Players who have made fewer than three competitive appearances before the age of 21 are permitted to change their national team. Greenwood, who was 18 at the time of his England debut in the Nations League against Iceland, meets these criteria.
Speculation about Greenwood joining Jamaica’s Reggae Boyz has been ongoing. Former Jamaica head coach Heimir Hallgrimsson revealed in March 2024 that discussions with Greenwood had taken place and that the forward would be welcomed into the team.
The rumours gained further traction following the appointment of Steve McClaren as Jamaica’s national team coach in July 2024. McClaren, a former assistant manager at Manchester United, disclosed that he had spoken with Greenwood about the potential switch. In November, McClaren confirmed that Greenwood had officially pledged his allegiance to Jamaica.
This move is seen as a fresh chapter in Greenwood’s career, offering him a chance to revive his international prospects and contribute to the Reggae Boyz’s ambitions on the global stage.
By Enoch Odesola| January 23, 2025