Manchester United have revealed that forward Mason Greenwood will leave Old Trafford after a six-month internal investigation into his conduct.
The Premier League giants haven’t used the 21-year-old forward since January 2022 because of the allegations. The allegations came from pictures and videos that were posted online.
In February, prosecutors said they were dropping charges against Greenwood, including attempted rape and sexual assault, because key witnesses had backed out and new evidence had come to light.
Monday, the club said that after a six-month internal investigation into Greenwood’s behaviour, it was giving him his release so he could try to rebuild his career somewhere else.
The club said Monday: “All those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him recommencing 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, whose contract runs until June 2025, said: “I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.
“However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post.”
He added: “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 aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United.”
The club said: “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 which he is taking responsibility for.”
Greenwood was thought to be a future star at United after he came up through the youth programme at Old Trafford. He went on to score 35 goals in 129 games for the club as an adult.
In his statement, he said: “I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst.
“I was brought up to know that violence or abuse in any relationship is wrong… However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post.
He added he was “learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner”.
Photo by EPA/Peter Powell
