Manchester United’s decision on Mason Greenwood’s future could be delayed until the September international break, according to The Athletic’s Laurie Whitwell.
Man Utd Decision on Mason Greenwood Could be Delayed Beyond August
Key Stakeholders Await Results of Internal Investigation
Greenwood’s future is expected to be determined by United’s Chief Executive Richard Arnold, following an internal investigation into allegations of sexual violence and domestic abuse.
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The 21-year-old was arrested in January 2022, following social media posts which appeared to show the player committing alleged acts of domestic and sexual violence. Greenwood was charged by police in October of the same year with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour.
Mason Greenwood has denied all allegations in relation to the matter.
The charges were eventually dropped following “the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material which came to light”, resulting in the conclusion that there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction, according to the Crown Prosecution Service. The club began an internal investigation into the matter shortly after the CPS’ decision to discontinue legal action was made.
Man Utd Was Expected to Conclude Mason Greenwood Saga This Month
According to Laurie Whitwell’s report, United recently indicated that a decision would be made before Manchester United’s opening Premier League game against Wolves. However, the club now wants to discuss the findings of their internal investigation with key stakeholders, including the women’s team and the Fan Advisory Board. The club has revealed that whilst feedback will be sought from the discussions, the final decision ultimately lies with Richard Arnold.
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Unfortunately, communicating with the women’s team as a complete unit will be difficult as their England internationals will need to play in the World Cup third-place play-off or the final on August 19th or 20th, respectively. Whitwell has claimed that players are then expected to go on holiday, which may result in a delay until the international break in the first week of September.
Ten Hag Open to Mason Greenwood’s Return
The Athletic’s report has also revealed that United boss Erik ten Hag is open to the prospect of Greenwood returning to the squad. However, despite reported support from his head coach, the one-time England international and his team are certain to face a backlash from large groups of fans.
There are already protests planned ahead of Monday night’s game against Wolverhampton Wanderers, organised by a newly formed group; Female Fans Against Greenwood’s Return. The protestors have urged senior management at the club to “demonstrate a zero tolerance approach towards acts of violence against women” by dropping the young player permanently.
What the club will decide with regard to Greenwood’s future is still uncertain, but the length of the proceedings could be interpreted as suggesting that United will aim to keep the forward. If such a decision is made, it is bound to cause controversy.
Main Image Credit: Paul on Flickr, CC BY 2.0
