In a shocking turn of events, Manchester United is reconsidering its decision to bring back Mason Greenwood to the squad, as an explosive update in his future has been revealed.
The Premier League club has faced significant backlash from fans ever since the news of Greenwood’s possible comeback surfaced.
Greenwood, who is just 21 years old, hasn’t played for the club since January 2022 due to suspension following his arrest.
Although the charges against him, including attempted rape, assault, and coercive control, were dropped last February, the player remained barred from the Carrington Training Ground while United conducted its own investigation.
After completing the investigation, Chief Executive Richard Arnold was tasked with making the final decision on Greenwood’s return.
Initially, it was expected that he would reintegrate the striker into the team. In fact, Arnold even filmed an explanation for this decision, which was set to air next week.
However, the leaked news of Greenwood’s return triggered a wave of negative reactions on social media, causing upheaval within the club hierarchy. Consequently, United now believes that there might be no way back for the young talent.
As the club hastily rewrites its statements, the previously planned announcement has been shelved. The uncertainty surrounding Greenwood’s future intensified when television presenter Rachel Riley openly declared that she would withdraw her support for Manchester United if Greenwood were allowed to remain at the club.
Moreover, a group called ‘Female Fans Against Greenwood’s Return‘ issued a strongly worded statement opposing his reinstatement.
They were not alone in their sentiment, as some club staff even threatened to strike. The issue also raised questions about the silence of footballers and pundits regarding male violence against women, with one domestic abuse campaigner criticizing their lack of action.
With two years remaining on his £75,000 per week contract, along with the option for an additional year, United faces legal complications if they decide to terminate Greenwood’s contract. While offering him out on loan is a possible solution, no firm offers from other clubs have materialized thus far.
In a statement released by the club, Manchester United emphasized that throughout the process, the alleged victim’s welfare and perspective have been central to their inquiries.
They also acknowledged their responsibilities towards Mason Greenwood as an employee, a young person who joined the club at the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner.
The potential repercussions of Greenwood’s return have led to polarizing opinions within and outside of the club.
Natalie Burrell, founder of Manchester United’s Women’s Supporters’ Club, warned that his comeback would make Old Trafford a toxic environment filled with booing.
Even though Utd manager Erik ten Hag and the majority of the team expressed openness to the idea of Greenwood returning, reservations were voiced by the women’s team.
Fans opposing his return staged protests at Old Trafford before United’s opening match of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.