Manchester United

Manchester United 'perform dramatic Mason Greenwood U-turn'

By Matt Law, Football Editor | 19 August 2023

Man United 'perform dramatic Mason Greenwood U-turn'

Manchester United are allegedly now preparing for Mason Greenwood's exit, with the club said to have changed their mind over his future.

Manchester United are reportedly now preparing for Mason Greenwood's exit, with the Red Devils said to have done a U-turn when it comes to the forward's future.

Towards the end of last week, the club said in a statement that they had concluded their investigation into the events that led to his arrest in January 2022.

The Red Devils said that, contrary to reports, a final decision had not been made, but The Athletic claim that Man United chief executive Richard Arnold that told senior staff earlier this month that Greenwood would be returning to the club to continue his professional career.

The 21-year-old's return was allegedly expected to occur next week, with the club preparing a statement.

However, according to The Sun, due to the backlash, Man United have performed a U-turn and are now preparing to remove him, which could potentially mean releasing him from his contract.

Mason Greenwood arrives in court in November 2022 © Reuters

Last year, following accusations from a woman, Greenwood was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.

The England international was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but the charges were dropped in February.

As a result, Greenwood is able to resume his career this season, and he has recently been taking part in training sessions in public spaces.

There had been talk of a loan move to a foreign club for the 2023-24 campaign in order to take him out of the spotlight, but senior figures at the club allegedly now believe that there is 'no way back'.

Manchester United's Mason Greenwood during the warm up before the match, December 8, 2021 © Reuters

Man United are now said to be 'rewriting their statements', having decided against bringing Greenwood back into the fold due to the huge backlash that has occurred from sections of supporters.

The forward had been regarded as one of the best young talents in world football before his arrest, and he still has another two years left to run on his contract at Old Trafford.

Greenwood, who last featured against West Ham United in January 2022, has scored 35 goals and registered 12 assists in 129 appearances for the 20-time English champions in all competitions.

Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag has allegedly been in favour of Greenwood returning to the club, while many of the players are also thought to believe that he deserves an opportunity to rebuild his career.