Manchester United release statement on Mason Greenwood

Manchester United say they have still not made a decision on the future of Mason Greenwood.

High-ranking officials at United said the club planned to communicate the result of a six-and-a-half month investigation on Greenwood before the start of the season but they delayed the announcement.

Greater Manchester Police announced on February 2 that charges against Greenwood, 21, had been dropped. Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault. He always denied all allegations.

Greenwood has not played for United since January 22 2022 and he has also not returned to training with the club. The final decision on Greenwood will be taken by chief executive Richard Arnold.

A statement released by United on Wednesday afternoon said: "Following the dropping of all charges against Mason Greenwood in February 2023, Manchester United has conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations made against him.

"This has drawn on extensive evidence and context not in the public domain, and we have heard from numerous people with direct involvement or knowledge of the case.

"Throughout this process, the welfare and perspective of the alleged victim has been central to the club’s inquiries, and we respect her right to lifelong anonymity.

"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.

"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 yet been made and is currently the subject of intensive internal deliberation. Responsibility