Manchester United's Mason Greenwood held over alleged rape
Manchester United's England international Mason Greenwood has been arrested on suspicion of rape and assault after a woman posted visual and audio allegations on social media of an incident.
The Premier League club said the 20-year-old forward «will not return to training or play matches until further notice».
On Sunday, police did not name Greenwood, but a statement about the investigation was provided after inquiries about the footballer.
«Greater Manchester Police were made aware earlier today of online social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence,» police said.
«An investigation was launched and, following enquiries, we can confirm a man in his 20s has since been arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.
»He remains in custody for questioning. Enquiries are ongoing."
The allegations were posted early on Sunday morning on the Instagram account of a woman who uploaded images of bruising to her body and bleeding from her lip.
A voice note purporting to be of an attack was also posted. The posts were later all deleted from social media but had been widely shared.
«Manchester United does not condone violence of any kind,» the club said.
Nike, one of Greenwood's sponsors, expressed its unease.
«We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation,» the sportswear firm said in a statement.
Greenwood, who progressed through the United academy into the first team, has scored six goals this season. He extended his contract last year, through to 2025.
He made his England debut in September 2020, but was sent home from Iceland for a disciplinary breach after the game. He hasn't played since for Gareth Southgate's side.
AP