According to recent reports, Mason Greenwood will not be returning to Manchester United training until next season at the earliest. The 21-year-old forward has been suspended by the club since January 2022 when he was first accused of attempted rape and assault. Although all criminal charges against him were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in February, his future at the club remains uncertain as Man United conducts an internal investigation.
The Daily Mail reports that the investigation “will not be completed before the summer,” meaning Greenwood will not be returning to the fold this season. The report states that Man United declined to comment on the matter. The club is said to be conducting due diligence into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and his off-field conduct.
The Greenwood case presents ethical, human, financial, and commercial dilemmas for the club. Players from Man United’s men and women’s teams are reportedly “concerned” about the possibility of him returning. The Mail also notes that there is a split across the club, with some staff arguing that he deserves a second chance, while commercial executives are “wary” over the potential damage to the club that bringing Greenwood back could do.
Sponsors Nike, EA Sports, and Cadbury all cut ties with Greenwood when the allegations first emerged, while his no.11 shirt is no longer for sale. However, it has not been reassigned. Man United has reportedly rejected offers from clubs in Turkey while they continue their investigation.
It remains to be seen what the outcome of Man United’s investigation will be and what impact it will have on Greenwood’s future at the club. For now, it seems that he will not be returning to training until next season at the earliest.