Manchester United stands to gain a substantial financial boost if Mason Greenwood departs Marseille amid the club’s ongoing turmoil. The Ligue 1 team faces significant instability following recent high-profile exits.

Marseille’s Leadership Crisis

Roberto De Zerbi stepped down as head coach after a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, marking the end of his two-year tenure. Shortly after, sporting director Mehdi Benatia resigned, citing a breakdown in communication.

Benatia, a former Bayern Munich and Juventus defender, reportedly clashed with Greenwood. The pair avoided interaction, and Benatia openly criticized the forward, particularly over ignored commercial duties last summer.

Greenwood’s Strong Form and Uncertain Future

Greenwood continues to shine, netting 23 goals across all competitions this season. Overall, he has scored 45 goals in 69 appearances since joining Marseille for £26.7 million in 2024, establishing himself as one of Europe’s top strikers.

Barcelona has shown interest in the player, with Marseille valuing him at £60 million. The tense atmosphere at the club may prompt Greenwood to explore new opportunities.

Manchester United’s Sell-On Clause Advantage

United negotiated a sell-on clause worth 40-50% of any profit from Greenwood’s future transfer. If Marseille sells him for £60 million, the profit after repaying Getafe’s 20% share would be £33.3 million. United would then receive around 40% of that, equating to approximately £10.66 million.

Benatia’s Resignation Statement

In his resignation announcement, Benatia stated: “Since arriving at the club, I have always acted with heart and a single obsession: to restore Olympique de Marseille to its rightful place. I know this club, I know what it demands and the passion that drives it.”

He added: “Today, we are still in the running. The objective of qualifying for the Champions League is clearly within our reach, and we are still in contention to bring the Coupe de France home. Despite recent setbacks and some cruel twists of fate, the project is progressing on the pitch, but I cannot ignore the current climate.”

Benatia continued: “I sense a growing dissatisfaction, a breakdown in communication that I deeply regret. In Marseille, results are the only true measure. You know my frankness and transparency.”

Finally: “Therefore, given the tensions surrounding the management, I have indeed submitted my resignation, because in my opinion, the club will always come before individuals, and I do not want my presence to become an obstacle or a burden to the organisation and its development. I leave with the feeling of having done my utmost professionally, but with the regret of not having been able to calm the atmosphere around the team, which, in my opinion, is more than capable of achieving the set objectives.”