Mason Greenwood, a Manchester United academy talent, is set to leave the club following the conclusion of a six-month internal inquiry.
Why did Manchester United decide to drop Mason Greenwood?
The decision came after a period of intense scrutiny and legal proceedings surrounding serious charges against Greenwood, which, in February 2203, were stricken off the court roll.
The forward, whose contract initially was due to expire in 2025, is departing the club in a move mutually agreed upon between him and Manchester United.
Manchester United embarked on an exhaustive internal inquiry following charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Greenwood.
These charges led to a halt in Greenwood’s playing career, casting a shadow over his future at the club.
The club and the player faced a complex situation, seeking resolution and clarity amidst rising backlash from the public, who, despite being exonerated, still labelled the forward an abuser.
On Monday, 21 August 2023, the club released an official statement, acknowledging the perspective of the alleged victim, Harriet Robson, while considering the club’s values.
“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,” the club revealed.
Here’s how Greenwood reacted to being axed by his childhood club
Though cleared of the original charges, Greenwood publicly acknowledged his own mistakes within his relationship.
The footballer expressed his commitment to learning and growing from these experiences, particularly as a father and partner. He emphasised his dedication to setting a positive example both on and off the pitch.
“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,” he wrote.
Throughout the internal process, Manchester United’s staff remained divided regarding Greenwood’s future with the club, per The Guardian.
While some believed he should be given a chance to continue his career, others felt uncomfortable with the prospect.
Manchester United’s decision was the culmination of a comprehensive investigation overseen by CEO Richard Arnold. An executive panel, which included chief operating officer Collette Roche and Legal head Patrick Stewart, considered the nuances of the case, referencing similar incidents across various sectors.
The club’s consultation process also considered the opinions of their England Women’s World Cup players.