English footballer, Mason Greenwood is leaving Manchester United after the club’s six-month internal inquiry.
Recall that the 21-year-old forward has been suspended by the Premier League giants since January 30, 2022, over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online, although a criminal case was discontinued. Prosecutors said in February they were dropping charges, including attempted rape and sexual assault, against Greenwood, after the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence coming to light.
After six months and amid growing pressure from wider society, Manchester United have eventually made a decision to allow Mason Greenwood move on.
The club said in a statement released on Monday afternoon;
“Our process commenced in February 2023, following all charges against Mason being dropped. Throughout, we have taken into account 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 context as possible. This has required us to proceed with sensitivity and care to obtain evidence not in the public domain, including from those with direct knowledge of the case.
“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.
“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, hasn’t played for the team since he was arrested in January 2022.
Greenwood played 129 times for Manchester United, scoring 35 goals. He was widely considered one of the most talented youngsters in world football and made one appearance for England. It’s not yet clear where Greenwood will be playing his football in the future.