Greenwood matches Drogba's debut record as De Zerbi urges greater effort

The 22-year-old, who arrived from Manchester United last summer in a deal worth £26.7 million, has shown flashes of brilliance since moving to the south of France.

Greenwood's recent scoring run — including three goals in his last two outings — has drawn comparisons with the legendary Ivorian, who also struck 19 goals in his first year at the club.

However, De Zerbi offered a measured response when speaking about his resurgence. While acknowledging the Englishman's recent performance, the Italian coach noted that such effort had been rare.

"Have you ever seen Greenwood train like that? Today was a first," he remarked ahead of a team camp in Italy. "It's not a punishment — we're going to work, to be together. The players are happy."

At the same time, the Marseille boss has expressed understanding, referencing the player's time at Getafe — where he played during a loan spell last season — and his reserved nature off the pitch.