Mason Greenwood To Leave Manchester United Following Mutual Agreement

Manchester United and Mason Greenwood have "mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate" for the player to continue his career away from the club.
Mason Greenwood To Leave Manchester United Following Mutual Agreement
Mason Greenwood To Leave Manchester United Following Mutual Agreement /

Manchester United and Mason Greenwood have "mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate" for the player to continue his career away from the club.

Greenwood, 21, is now set to leave United and will likely never return to Old Trafford.

The former England international last represented United on January 22 in 2022 before he was arrested later that month.

He was later charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling behavior, and assault, but all charges against him were dropped on February 2 earlier this year.

Despite no longer facing any criminal charges, Greenwood was still the subject of a club investigation, which has now concluded after six months.

Mason Greenwood pictured playing for Manchester United in August 2021
It has been "mutually agreed" that Mason Greenwood will leave Manchester United  :: IMAGO/PA Images/Martin Rickett

A club statement read on Monday: "Manchester United has concluded its internal investigation into the allegations made against Mason Greenwood.

"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."

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood pictured in September 2021
Greenwood made 129 first-team appearances for United - with his last coming in January 2022 :: IMAGO/Sportimage/Jonathan Moscrop

United CEO Richard Arnold added: "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."

Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold pictured in May 2023
Manchester United CEO Richard Arnold oversaw the club's investigation into allegations made against Greenwood :: IMAGO/PA Images/Nick Potts

United have not said that Greenwood's contract - which had been due to expire in June 2025 - will be terminated.

It remains unclear whether United will release Greenwood from his contract or try to find a buyer for the player so that the club can receive a transfer fee.

According to multiple reports, United bosses had initially been keen to bring Greenwood back into the first-team squad.

But the club's apparent U-turn came after heavy backlash from supporters and members of club staff.

Greenwood said in a statement on Monday: "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, 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.

"I am 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.

"Today's decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me. 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. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown.

"I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch."

READ MORE: Manchester United Score Own Goal With Brash Statements On Mason Greenwood And His "Mistakes"


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Robert Summerscales
ROBERT SUMMERSCALES

Robert Summerscales launched FanNation Futbol in February 2022. Rob is a British journalist who previously spent two years on the sports desk at the Daily Mail in London, having earlier served as editor of CaughtOffside.com. He has been to the last two FIFA Men's World Cups, in Russia and Qatar, and is looking forward to completing his hat-trick in North America in 2026.