In response to public outcry, Manchester United has reversed its stance on Mason Greenwood and decided to allow the embattled striker to depart from Old Trafford following an internal inquiry.
Over six months after the dismissal of allegations involving sexual assault and domestic violence against him, Mason Greenwood is set to part ways with Manchester United.
Having been under suspension by the club since his initial arrest in January 2022, Greenwood’s situation took a significant turn.
READ ALSO: BREAKING: Police Drop Charges Against Mason Greenwood
The formal charges were brought against him in October 2022.
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Nonetheless, in February of the current year, the Crown Prosecution Service dropped all charges against Greenwood.
This decision came about due to the withdrawal of key witnesses and the presentation of new evidence.
In a statement, Manchester United officially disclosed that Greenwood will leave Old Trafford.
The statement reads;
“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.
READ ALSO: Rape Allegations: England Banishes Mason Greenwood
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.”
Following the Club’s announcement, Greenwood thanked the club and everyone who supported him during his difficult times.
READ ALSO: EPL: Manchester United Decides on Mason Greenwood’s Return to Training
He said in a statement;
“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.
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.”
The majority of United fans would be sad with this outcome, while others would see it as the best decision the club had to make.
