Manchester United have ‘mutually agreed’ to let Mason Greenwood leave the club.
Greenwood had been suspended by Utd since late January 2022 following an accusation of assault by his girlfriend, which led to a police investigation with the forward subsequently charged for three offences in October 2022 but those charges were dropped almost four months later.
Utd since have undertaken a seven-month internal review whilst considering ‘the wishes, rights and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values, and sought to collate as much information and contest as possible.’
The club has now released an official statement in which they concluded that Greenwood ‘did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged. That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for.’
Utd also iterated that material posted online failed to ‘provide a full picture’ of the overall situation.
Greenwood consequently decided in consultation with officials at Man Utd that there would be ‘difficulties’ in him resuming his career at Old Trafford, and ‘mutually agreed’ to move on with the club working alongside the player to find him a new club.
The 21 year-old leaves Utd having scored 35 goals in 129 senior appearances, during which he earned one international cap for England.
Reintegration considered by Utd
Utd CEO, Richard Arnold issued an open statement detailing the club’s investigation, which included addressing media leaks concerning Greenwood’s alleged planned return to the club, whilst considering ‘various factors and views’ until he made his final decision.
Arnold admitted that reintegrating Greenwood into the club was ‘considered’ with a plan put in place amongst various scenarios, including the challenge in Greenwood facing media scrutiny if he returned to the club where he had graduated through their youth academy.
Reflecting upon the decision to part company with Greenwood, Arnold commented: “While I am satisfied that Mason did not commit the acts he was charged with, Mason’s accepted that he has made mistakes which he takes responsibility for.
“I am also mindful of the challenge that Mason would face rebuilding his career and raising a baby together with his partner in the harsh spotlight of Manchester United.
“Further, this case has provoked strong opinions, and it is my responsibility to minimise any distraction to the unity we are seeking within the club.
“Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career away from Manchester United, that does not signal the end of this matter.
“The club will continue to offer its support both to the alleged victim and Mason to help them rebuild and move forward positively with their lives.”
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