Mason Greenwood breaks silence after Man United confirm he is leaving

After Manchester United announced their decision that Mason Greenwood is to depart the club, the footballer has released a statement.

United have concluded their six-month internal investigation into the 21-year-old striker, who has been suspended from the club since January 2022 after he was arrested and faced charges of attempted rape, controlling coercive behaviour and assault.

In February this year, Greater Manchester Police announced the charges against the player had been dropped, with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) stating that ‘in this case a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction’.

Greenwood did not return to play at Old Trafford after allegations were dropped with Manchester United conducting their own internal investigation.

Reports came to light last week suggesting United would allow the player to make a return and continue his career there.

However, the club received strong backlash from the public, campaigners and some celebrities.

Now the investigation has concluded and United have confirmed they have made the decision that Greenwood can no longer have a future at the club, the footballer has broken his silence and issued a statement.

In a lengthy statement, Greenwood said: “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.”

The club released a statement confirming the news yesterday, which read: “Manchester United has concluded its internal investigation into the allegations made against Mason Greenwood.

“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. 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.”