Rob Dawson, reporter07:30 pm August 21, 2023
Mason Greenwood and Manchester United have mutually agreed that he will leave the club following a six-month investigation into his conduct.
United have opened an investigation into the circumstances surrounding Greenwood’s arrest on suspicion of rape and assault after criminal charges against the footballer were dropped in February.
Greenwood was arrested in January 2022 after images and audio files were circulated online.
In a statement released Monday, United said it had “concluded that the material posted online does not provide a complete picture and that Mason did not commit the crimes for which he was initially charged,” but informed announced that the former 21-year-old would leave Old Trafford.
Sources told ESPN that Greenwood’s contract until 2025 has yet to be terminated, but he is not expected to play for the club anymore. Sources say United will consider loan offers as well as a permanent move.
A statement released by United read: “All involved, including Mason, recognized the difficulties he faced at the start of his career at Manchester United.
“Therefore, both sides have agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to leave Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that.”
In a separate statement, Greenwood, who has been suspended from training and playing since he was first arrested, said he “did not do the things that I am accused of” but accepted that the decision to leave United was “best for all of us.”
Sources told ESPN he will remain fully paid while the club work to secure him a new club but he will not be allowed to train at Carrington, even for one Erik ten Hag’s personal program away from the first team.
His statement read: “I fully accept that I made a mistake in my relationship and that I am responsible for the circumstances that led to the social media post.
“Today’s decision is part of a partnership between Manchester United, my family and myself. The best decision for all of us is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where the My presence will not be a nuisance to the club.” .”
In line with the statements by United and Greenwood, United CEO Richard Arnold – who made the final decision that Greenwood should leave the club – sent an open letter to supporters to “justify” transparent with our fans about the process and reasons for our decision.”
Arnold said that during the club’s investigation, they were “provided with alternative explanations for the recording, which is a short excerpt from a much longer recording and for the images posted.” online” and that the woman’s family was involved in the process.
Arnold wrote: “While I am pleased that Mason did not commit the acts for which he is accused, Mason admits that he has made mistakes and that he is responsible for them.”
“I am also mindful of the challenge Mason will face in rebuilding his career and raising children with his partner under the harsh attention of Manchester United. Furthermore, this case has caused opinions are strong and it is my responsibility to minimize any distractions to the unity we are looking for in the club.
“Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career upon leaving Manchester United, that does not mean the matter is over. The club will continue to support the victims of the crisis. alleged individual and Mason to help them rebuild and move forward positively with their lives.”
United’s investigation, which began after criminal proceedings were dropped, was carried out by a team of senior executives and their evidence was turned over to Arnold.
Sources told ESPN that, based on the results of the investigation, the club does not believe Greenwood physically abused the woman and based on conversations with the woman’s mother, does not believe he committed the crime of rape. behavior picture.
According to sources, the woman was not directly involved with the club but was given the opportunity to correct any findings.
Sources told ESPN that the woman withdrew the allegation and supported a police investigation in April 2022.
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