LIVE UPDATES
Mason Greenwood[/caption]
The club's internal investigation into the allegations against Greenwood has now concluded. In a statement, Manchester United said:
"Following the termination of Mason Greenwood's contract, the club can confirm that he will not return to Manchester United. The decision has been taken following a thorough review of all the evidence available.
It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome."
Greenwood's final game for Manchester United was in January 2022. He had made 129 appearances for the club, scoring 50 goals.
The decision by Manchester United to not reinstate Greenwood is a major one. The club's stance on violence against women is made quite clear. Even if Red Devils faithful were split on the subject of Greenwood's comeback, this decision is sure to be well received by them. While some supporters wanted Greenwood back on the field, others claimed he should never play for the team again.Greenwood's Future in the Air
Greenwood's career will be profoundly affected by Manchester United's decision. It is uncertain where he will play next, as he is now a free agent. Nonetheless, he is quite unlikely to find a club in the Premier League or any other major European League.In his statement, Mason Greenwood said:
"I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst. I was brought up to know that violence or abuse in any relationship is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges. However, I fully accept I made mistakes in my relationship, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post. I am learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner.
Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me. The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club. I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United.
I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown. I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch."
