Updated 16 Aug 2023 7:30 pm:
Manchester United have released a statement saying “[a] decision has not been made yet and is currently the subject of intensive interval deliberation.”
Mason Greenwood was suspended from the club in January 2022 following claims of domestic abuse which came to light on social media. He was later charged in October 2022 with assault, controlling and coercive behaviour and attempted rape. The charges were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in February 2023.
The club consulted their women’s team over whether Greenwood should play for the club again and had hoped that a decision would have been made before the start of the 23/24 Premier League season but the process has been delayed due to three of United’s players away at the World Cup in Australia, with England playing in the final against Spain following their 3-1 victory over Australia on Wednesday 16th.
In the statement, the club said: “Throughout this process, the welfare and perspective of the alleged victim has been central to the club’s inquiries.
“The fact-finding phase of our investigation is now complete, and we are in the final stages of making a decision on Mason’s future.
“Contrary to media speculation, that decision has not been made yet and is currently subject of intensive internal deliberation. Responsibility ultimately rests with the Chief Executive Officer.”
The Athletic reported that chief executive Richard Arnold had communicated with senior staff that Greenwood was due to return at the start of August however, United did not proceed with this announcement or communicate any decisions publicly.
The 21-year-old has not played for, nor has he been training with United since his arrest in January 2022 and has a contract with the club until 2025 with the option of an additional year. He has played 129 games for United since his debut until January 22 and scored a total of 35 goals.
United added: “We also have responsibilities to Mason as an employee, as a young person who has been with the club since the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner.”
Greenwood has always denied the allegations. In a statement released on the 21-year-old striker’s behalf, he said: “I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support.”
Erik ten Hag was asked for his opinion on the situation during the pre-season tour in America. He said: “Of course, I have said my ideas and opinions but it’s a club decision. We all have to accept that.
“I can’t say so much about it. But what I say is I shared my opinion about it so let’s see what’s going to happen and what the decision will be.”
Supporter groups have protested against Greenwood’s return with many believing that he should not play for the club again.
In the statement, the club said: “This has been a difficult case for everyone associated with Manchester United, and we understand the strong opinions it has provoked based on the partial evidence in the public domain. We ask for patience as we work through the final stages of this carefully considered process.”
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