5 Reasons Mason Greenwood’s World Cup Dream Remains Uncertain Amid Jamaica and England Doubts

Mason Greenwood’s recent resurgence at Marseille has thrust him back into the international football spotlight, raising hopes he could feature at the upcoming World Cup. 

However, despite his excellent form, the forward’s international future remains clouded by several complex factors. Here’s a detailed look—based heavily on reporting by The Athletic—on why Greenwood’s path to the global stage is still far from certain.

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Currently at Marseille, Greenwood has delivered standout performances, including 10 goals in 12 Ligue 1 matches and an eye-catching display against Newcastle United in the Champions League, where he created four chances. 

His form has reignited debate about whether he will represent Jamaica or England at the World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.

Greenwood’s Jamaican eligibility comes through his maternal grandparents, and he officially secured a Jamaican passport in August 2025. 

Yet, despite this, he has yet to make himself available for the Reggae Boyz. The Jamaica Football Federation (JFF) president Michael Ricketts revealed Greenwood declined a call-up in September 2025, citing family decisions as the reason for his absence.

Former Jamaica head coach Steve McClaren also confirmed that Greenwood was hesitant to commit fully, telling media: “He’s not going to commit at this time to anybody, so he’s taking his time over that. It’s a little bit disappointing. We probably have to be more patient.”

Despite having only a single senior England cap from 2020 and no call-ups since, Greenwood reportedly still harbours hopes of an England recall. Sources suggest he believes his recent performances could earn him a second chance under current England manager Thomas Tuchel.

However, Tuchel publicly ruled out Greenwood’s inclusion, stating in September 2025, “He was not in the mix at the moment and he is not in our thoughts for our team.” The English FA has also distanced itself from Greenwood due to his past legal issues, which remain a significant barrier to any return.

Greenwood’s off-field history complicates his international prospects. In January 2022, he was arrested on serious charges, including attempted rape and assault, though all charges were dropped in February 2023 due to lack of evidence. Greenwood has consistently denied all allegations.

The Jamaica Football Federation has taken a more open stance, viewing the legal clearance as a clean slate allowing Greenwood to resume his international career. 

However, many players and fans remain divided, concerned about the potential backlash and the message his inclusion would send.

Several long-serving Reggae Boyz players have voiced reservations about Greenwood joining the team late in the qualifying campaign. Queens Park Rangers midfielder Isaac Hayden highlighted concerns about team unity and commitment, telling The Athletic:

“I don’t see why they should be joining the group... if we qualify. There is no way that should be allowed to happen.”

He emphasised that the existing squad, many of whom fought hard through the qualifiers, could feel undermined by players joining only when the World Cup appears within reach. Charlton Athletic’s Amari’i Bell echoed this sentiment, stressing the sacrifices made by current squad members and warning that any new arrivals should first be accepted by the team to maintain harmony.

Greenwood’s Jamaican passport only arrived after significant delays caused by paperwork issues, including a missing surname on his maternal grandfather’s birth certificate. This bureaucratic snag frustrated the JFF, which had been eager to finalise his eligibility.

Additionally, Greenwood’s club duties at Marseille, particularly during their Champions League campaign, have limited his availability for international duty. 

Former Jamaica coach Heimir Hallgrimsson noted that Greenwood wished to focus on club football and was reluctant to commit internationally at that time. The considerable travel distance from Europe to Jamaica has been another logistical challenge.

With the JFF now under interim coach Rudolph Speid, and the World Cup intercontinental playoffs looming in March, the door remains open—but firmly ajar—for Greenwood. Whether he commits to Jamaica or continues to hold out for England remains a significant question. For now, his World Cup dream is a tantalising possibility shadowed by uncertainty on multiple fronts.