'The club didnt stand by him'- Mason Greenwood questions loyalty of Manchester United after dismissal of rape, assault charges

Mason Greenwood (Image source: Twitter)

The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) has dropped the charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm against Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood. The charges were dropped after a key witness withdrew and new material came to light, making it difficult to secure a conviction. As a result, Greenwood has not played for the club since his arrest in January of last year and will not train or play for the club until their internal investigation is completed.

According to The Sun, Greenwood is prepared to go abroad to continue playing football as he fears he may not be able to play in England due to the backlash he would receive. A source close to the striker claimed he could even be willing to play in China and would be wary of playing for United again, feeling they did not provide enough support when he was first arrested.

The source said, “He felt like the club didn’t stand by him… He said he would be happy to go and play in China as long as that meant he was getting paid well and was playing. His view may have softened over the last few months, but he was not happy at all.”

Greenwood thanks family and loved ones for continued support

The Guardian reported that staff at United are split over whether Mason Greenwood should be allowed to resume his career at the club, with some feeling they have a duty of care towards the player who joined the academy at the age of seven. Greenwood released a brief statement after the charges were dropped, saying, “I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones, and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time.”

When asked about the situation, manager Erik ten Hag said, “I can’t give a comment about the process… I can’t say anything about it. I refer to the statement of the club and at this moment I can’t add anything.” The outcome of United's internal investigation will determine the future of Greenwood's football career.