The 35-year-old found the net in the 85th minute, providing a consolation goal against his former club at the Orange Vélodrome.

Despite the loss, Ayew received warm applause from the home crowd in recognition of his effort.

Marseille dominated the match, taking a commanding lead with three goals in the first half, scored between the 25th and 43rd minutes.

Their advantage grew in the second half as Mason Greenwood set up Elye Wahi for the fourth goal in the 66th minute, followed by a fifth from Ulisses Garcia in the 75th minute.

Ayew’s goal marked a personal milestone, as it was his first in the league this season, achieved during his ninth appearance and sixth start.

Greenwood, 22, was a product of United’s academy but has not played for the Premier League club since January 2022 and was on loan at Getafe last season.

Serious charges against him, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped in February 2023.

The French club were criticised by the Marseille mayor after their intention to sign Greenwood was made public.

He made his competitive senior debut for United in 2019 as a substitute against Paris St-Germain in the Champions League.

He scored 35 goals in 129 appearances and won his only England cap in 2020.

In August 2023, United said Greenwood would leave the club by mutual agreement after a six-month internal investigation into his conduct.

He joined La Liga side Getafe the following month, where he scored 10 goals and made six assists in 36 appearances to revive his career.

United, who wished Greenwood well on their website, have also included a sizeable sell-on clause in their deal with Marseille.

Marseille face Sunderland in a pre-season friendly on 3 August at Bradford City’s Valley Parade, with the Stadium of Light unavailable because of renovation work.

Greenwood was born in Bradford and it could be his first game back in England since he was arrested in January 2022 following allegations surrounding material which was published online.