Why Mason Greenwood switched to 'weaker' right foot for Marseille penalty as ex-Man Utd star has dream debut

In his opening match of the 2024-25 Ligue 1 season against Brest, Greenwood needed only three minutes to make an impact. Receiving the ball on the right flank, he darted past defenders with ease before slotting the ball home with his left foot, giving Marseille an early lead.

Later in the match, Greenwood added a second goal to his tally, this time from the penalty spot. While many players favour their stronger foot for such critical moments, Greenwood opted to take the penalty with his weaker right foot, a decision that puzzled many.

Greenwood's preference for taking penalties with his right foot, despite being predominantly left-footed, has a unique backstory. In an interview from 2019, Greenwood revealed the origins of this unusual choice. "I prefer my left foot, just about, to my right foot," he explained. "But it happened when I was in the Under-13s. I missed with my left foot against City when I was struggling in a game, and ever since I've just gone with the right foot."

Greenwood's transfer to Marseille was one of the most talked-about moves of the summer. Despite the controversies, the French club decided to take a chance on the talented striker, signing him on a permanent deal from United as manager Roberto de Zerbi pushed to get the player. In the previous season, he had impressed with Getafe and although there were talks that Sir Jim Ratcliffe might give the striker a second chance at Old Trafford, the Red Devils allegedly chose to sell him to avoid any further public backlash.

Greenwood's move to Marseille marks a new chapter in his career, one that he hopes will be defined by success on the pitch and a fresh start away from the controversies that clouded his time in England. His debut performance against Brest suggests that he is ready to embrace this opportunity and make a significant impact in Ligue 1. He will now turn his attention to their next challenge – a fixture against Reims next weekend.