Manchester United, competing in the Premier League, announced today (Monday) that forward Mason Greenwood will leave Old Trafford following an investigation into allegations of attempted rape from which he was acquitted. The club stated in a release: "All parties involved, including Mason, recognized the difficulties he faces in resuming his career with Manchester United. Therefore, it was mutually agreed that it would be best for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to reach this outcome."
The club added that "the investigation it conducted began as soon as the charges were dropped," noting that the investigation considered "the wishes, rights, and perspective of the alleged victim alongside the club's standards and values." The club concluded that "based on the evidence available to us, we determined that the materials published online did not provide a complete picture and that Mason did not commit the crimes he was originally accused of."
In an open letter to the club's supporters, CEO Richard Arnold stated that the club considered several outcomes, including reintegrating Greenwood into the team before arriving at its decision. He highlighted that "this issue has generated strong reactions, and it is my responsibility to minimize any distraction to the unity we strive for within the club. Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career away from Manchester United, this does not signify the end of this matter."
He confirmed that the club "will continue to support the alleged victim and Mason to help them rebuild their lives and move forward positively." In a statement to British media, Greenwood admitted he "made mistakes," adding: "I did not do the things I was accused of. Today's decision was part of a collaborative process between me, Manchester United, and my family."
He continued, "The best decision for all of us is that I continue my football career away from Old Trafford so that my presence is not a distraction for the club." Greenwood expressed gratitude to the club for its support since he joined at the age of seven. He stated that there will always be a part of him that belongs to United. He intends to become a better footballer, but more importantly, a good father and a better person, and to utilize his talents positively both on and off the field.
Greenwood was suspended by United in January 2022 when allegations against him emerged on social media, which included attempted rape, controlling behavior, and assault last October. He was supposed to stand trial on November 27, 2023, but all criminal charges against him were dropped in February. Greenwood rose through United’s youth academy and made his first-team debut in 2019 at the age of 17.
