Man United boss Erik ten Hag avoids questions about Mason Greenwood

Erik ten Hag sidestepped questions about Mason Greenwood as the Manchester United manager spoke for the first time since it was agreed that the forward will leave Old Trafford.

The 21-year-old has been suspended by the club since January 30, 2022 over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online.

Greenwood was facing charges including attempted rape and assault until the Crown Prosecution Service announced six and a half months ago that the case had been discontinued.

Reports that United were planning to retain him following an internal investigation were met by public outcry, with the club announcing on Monday that it had been mutually agreed for him to leave.

Ten Hag spoke for the first time since that decision at Friday’s press conference previewing the Premier League clash with Nottingham Forest, but did not want to discuss the process or outcome.

“Look, we are not where we want to be with our team,” the United boss said when asked about Greenwood.

“I have a lot of work, I have a lot of focus on my team, so I focus on the players who are available.”

Greenwood said in a statement that he “did not do the things I was accused of” but acknowledged he had “made mistakes” and United are working with his family to help find the right move for the forward.

It is understood United have received multiple expressions of interest in the 21-year-old, with clubs in Saudi Arabia, Turkey, Italy and even Albania reported to be interested.

Asked if he expected or wanted Greenwood to return, Ten Hag said: “As I said, I only have statements about our performance, our squad, where we have to improve because it’s clear we have to improve.

“I have to put every effort in to get the team (to) perform.”

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