England and Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood leaves Minshull Street Crown Court in Manchester on November 21, 2022 after a preliminary hearing on charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault. - The 21-year-old was first arrested in January over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online. All three charges relate to the same complainant. (Photo by Lindsey Parnaby / AFP) (Photo by LINDSEY PARNABY/AFP via Getty Images)

Manchester United, after an extensive internal investigation, has made an official declaration concerning the departure of Mason Greenwood from the club. The decision comes in the wake of months of speculation and scrutiny surrounding the young English talent. With his future now taking a different trajectory, this development brings to an end his association with the Red Devils.

The 21-year-old Greenwood, once hailed as one of the brightest prospects in English football, has become a focal point of attention due to grave allegations and charges against him. In late January 2022, he was suspended by Manchester United following accusations of attempted rape, assault, and coercive control. Disturbing images and recordings emerged, prompting the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to initiate a criminal case against him.

The charges encompassed a range of serious offenses, and while the case eventually faced discontinuation due to key witnesses withdrawing their cooperation, the club found itself facing a complex dilemma regarding Greenwood’s future.

In a decisive official statement, Manchester United addressed the matter: “Manchester United has concluded its internal investigation into the allegations made against Mason Greenwood. Our process commenced in February 2023, following all charges against Mason being dropped. Throughout, we have taken into account the wishes, rights, and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values.”

The internal inquiry, conducted with utmost sensitivity, revealed that the material posted online did not present the complete context of the situation. Consequently, the club found no evidence to support the initial charges leveled against Greenwood. However, the player acknowledged his own missteps and expressed a commitment to taking responsibility for them.

The culmination of this investigation led to a mutual agreement between the club and the player that it would be best for Greenwood to continue his professional journey away from Old Trafford. The statement emphasized: “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.”

While Greenwood’s contractual arrangement with Manchester United extends until 2025, his departure from the club has been confirmed. The decision, made in consultation with the alleged victim’s perspective, reflects the club’s desire to uphold its values and standards.

This decision followed a period of public outcry, prompted by a report that indicated the club’s initial intention to reintegrate Greenwood. The report brought to light that the management had eventually reconsidered this move due to external pressures and concerns.

As Manchester United moves forward, the spotlight now turns to the next chapter in Mason Greenwood’s career. The announcement marks the conclusion of a complex and sensitive matter, with the club emphasizing its ongoing support for both the alleged victim and Greenwood as they navigate their respective paths ahead.