Where is Mason Greenwood’s Best Position?

In recent years, few players have burst onto the scene as emphatically as Mason Greenwood. The Red Devils academy graduate has become a focal point of United’s attack under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, with supporters believing that he is the club’s future. For all of his talent, his best position in the short-term remains a matter of contention. So, let’s take a look at where the 19-year-old performs best.

Is His Versatility Hindering Him?
In the opening 37 games of the 2020-21 season, Greenwood played 27 times from the right-wing. In the other ten matches, he’s been a central striker. Statistically, there’s little difference regarding his on-field return relative to his position. From the flank, he’s recorded three goals and three assists. Centrally, he’s scored once and set up a further two goals.

With Anthony Martial, Edinson Cavani, and Marcus Rashford to choose from, Solskjaer has plenty of striking options. The same, however, can’t be said concerning right-wingers. Aside from Daniel James, Greenwood is one of few players capable of playing down the right-hand side. Despite this, the Red Devils faithful believe it’s time for the club’s manager to trust the 19-year-old to lead the line. As per Manchester Evening News, 70 percent of surveyed United fans want Greenwood to play centrally, while only 21 percent agree with the decision to deploy him as a right-winger.

However, his versatility has given him the platform to play for the 20-time English League champions and England over the past few years. Not only has he successfully filled a right-sided void at Old Trafford, but he’s also played a part in getting Manchester United back into the Premier League title picture. With the available bookmaker sign-up offers and bonuses, Red Devils supporters can take advantage of various free bet opportunities, including risk-free bets and money-back offerings, when betting on their side’s title chances, although it would probably be better waiting until next season as City look to have the title under wraps.

Dreaming of Being United’s Leading Striker
Prior to Manchester United’s Europa League clash with Real Sociedad, Greenwood signed a new four-year deal with the 20-time league champions. Few can argue that the 19-year-old’s future doesn’t lie with the Red Devils, although his long-term position remains up in the air. By the academy prospect’s own admission, he wants to “eventually” play as a centre-forward for the Red Devils.

Because of his skill set, Solskjaer has the luxury of playing Greenwood in an array of positions across the attacking line. However, it will benefit both club and player if there’s clarity concerning his future. At the time of writing, both Cavani and Martial have injuries, opening the door for the 19-year-old to get a consistent run through the middle. While it’s unclear if Solskjaer will alter his plans, there’s unlikely to be a better time to see what Greenwood is capable of against established central defenders.

Centrally or Out Wide, Greenwood is a Problem for Defenders
Like many young players, Greenwood has a fearlessness that makes him a threat to opposition defenders. With his dribbling, finishing, and pace, the academy graduate is a handful irrespective of where he’s playing. Because of his attributes, a future as a central striker appears logical, but he may have to bide his time.