Greenwood to leave Manchester United to avoid being a 'distraction'

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood will leave Old Trafford, he and the Premier League club said on Monday, to avoid being a "distraction" despite being cleared of allegations of assault.

Greenwood, who was suspended by United in January 2022 when accusations against him surfaced on social media, was charged with controlling behaviour and assault last October.

He had been due to stand trial on November 27 but all criminal charges against him were dropped in February, with the Crown Prosecution Service saying it was due to "the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light".

United said their investigation began once charges were dropped.

"Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged," the club said in a statement.

But it said "all those involved, including Mason" recognised the difficulties with him recommencing his career at Manchester United.

"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," it said.

In a statement to British media, Greenwood said he had "made mistakes", adding: "I did not do the things I was accused of.

"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."

In an open letter addressed to the club's fans, CEO Richard Arnold said the club had considered several outcomes, one of which was Greenwood's reintegration into the squad, before coming to their decision.

"This case has provoked strong opinions, and it is my responsibility to minimise any distraction to the unity we are seeking within the club," Arnold said.

"Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career away from Manchester United, that does not signal the end of this matter.

"The club will continue to offer its support both to the alleged victim and Mason to help them rebuild and move forward positively with their lives."