Mason Greenwood will leave Manchester United after the club’s investigation into the striker’s attempted rape allegation is completed.
The English international, who was detained in January 2022 on suspicion of a number of charges, including attempted rape, will not play for the club again and will either be loaned out or have his contract resolved.
Following the withdrawal of key witnesses and the discovery of fresh evidence, the Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges in February.
Greenwood, however, has not played for United since his detention, and the club has initiated its own investigation. That investigation is now complete. United determined that Greenwood did not commit the charges for which he was charged but also determined that it would be best for everyone if his future was away from Old Trafford.
Speaking on the development, a United spokesperson said “all those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him resuming his career at Manchester United. It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome.”
Greenwood was detained after several gruesome photographs and videos were shared on social media. Later, he was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault causing actual bodily harm.
According to Manchester United, “based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged. That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes for which he is taking responsibility.”
Speaking on United’s decision, Greenwood said, “I was brought up to know that violence or abuse in any relationship is wrong; I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges. I take my share of responsibility for the situations that led to the social media post.
“Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family, and me. The best decision for us all is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club. I thank the club for their support since I joined at age seven. There will always be a part of me that is united.”
