Mason Greenwood is desperate to return to international football, but the former Manchester United forward snubbed a call-up to represent Jamaica and it has all but paid off
15:39, 19 Nov 2025Updated 16:04, 19 Nov 2025
Mason Greenwood's decision to reject a call-up to play for the Jamaica national team has been vindicated, as the Reggae Boyz failed to secure automatic qualification for next summer's World Cup.
Steve McClaren had hoped that the ex-Manchester United forward would choose to represent Jamaica after it was revealed he had submitted paperwork to change his international allegiance. However, reports surfaced last week suggesting that 24-year-old Greenwood is instead 'obsessed' with donning the England shirt once more, over five years since his debut against Iceland.
Despite England boss Thomas Tuchel making it clear he's not in his plans, Greenwood remains resolute in his ambition to return to international football with the Three Lions.
Now, Greenwood's choice to decline a call-up to the Jamaica squad has now been justified, following their failure to automatically qualify for the upcoming World Cup in North America.
The Reggae Boyz needed a victory over Curacao on Tuesday to top their qualifying group and book their place at the World Cup, but they fell short, ending in a humiliating 0-0 draw.
In doing so, the small Caribbean island finished top of their CONCACAF group and secured their World Cup berth, leaving Jamaica to settle for runners-up and a spot in the intercontinental play-offs.
Soon afterwards, former United coach McClaren announced he would be stepping down from his role as Jamaica manager. "Over the last 18 months, I have given everything I have to this job," he said post-match.
"Leading this team has been one of the greatest honours of my career. But football is a results business and tonight we have fallen short of our goal, which was to qualify from this group. It is the responsibility of the leader to step forward, take accountability and make decisions in the best interests of the team.
"After deep reflection and an honest assessment of where we are and where we need to go, I have decided to step down as head coach of the Jamaican national team."
He continued: "Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is to recognise when a fresh voice, new energy and a different perspective is required to move this team forward. I'm positive this team will succeed in March.
"I thank you, Jamaica. I will be forever grateful to have led the Reggae Boyz, really has been an honour, respect and one love to you all."
Meanwhile, Greenwood has been in impressive form for Marseille this campaign.
The forward has netted nine goals and registered four assists in 15 outings across all competitions.
The former Getafe loanee made a £27million switch from Manchester United to the Ligue 1 team last summer and has been turning heads under Roberto De Zerbi's management for the past 16 months.