Getty Image
After initially deciding they would attempt to reintegrate him into the club’s first team, Premier League powerhouse Manchester United has reversed course and announced on Monday that they are officially parting ways with English forward Mason Greenwood.
Greenwood, 21 years old, has been away from the team since he was arrested in January 2022 on suspicion of rape and assault. Then, in October of that same year, he was officially charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behavior.
Back in February 2023, however, the charges against Greenwood were dropped, which led to United considering bringing him back to the team.
Following a widespread public outcry about their decision, though, the club backtracked. That did not stop them, however, from pointing out that their internal investigation found that Greenwood “did not commit the offenses in respect of which he was originally charged.”
“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 offenses 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,” Manchester United’s official statement reads in part.
In a statement, Greenwood not only maintained his innocence but seemed to allude to social media playing a role in what’s happened to his career.
“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,” Greenwood’s statement says.
“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.”
After joining Manchester United in 2018, Greenwood made 83 senior appearances for the club and scored 22 goals. Earlier this year, Greenwood gave birth to a baby girl with his partner Harriet Robson.
You can find the rest of Greenwood’s official statement about his departure from United and his plans for the rest of his career below. As for United, they’ll next be in action against Nottingham Forrest on Saturday, August 26 at 10 a.m. EST.
Mason Greenwood’s full statement on parting ways with Manchester United
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, 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.