Manchester United have confirmed they have completed an internal investigation regarding Mason Greenwood but have not revealed whether he will be brought back into the first-team yet.
Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault following an investigation by Greater Manchester Police which started back in January 2022. He was immediately suspended by Man Utd.
However, the Crown Prosecution confirmed in February 2023 that "a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction" and charges were ultimately dropped.
Though Greenwood has not been convicted or found guilty by legal authorities, Man Utd carried out an investigation of their own with a view to bringing him back into the first-team.
They were expected to announce the result of their findings ahead of the new season but postponed making a decision, and have now provided an update on Greenwood's situation.
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A club statement read: "Following the dropping of all charges against Mason Greenwood in February 2023, Manchester United has conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations made against him.
"This has drawn on extensive evidence and context not in the public domain, and we have heard from numerous people with direct involvement or knowledge of the case.
"Throughout this process, the welfare and perspective of the alleged victim has been central to the club’s inquiries, and we respect her right to lifelong anonymity.
"We also have responsibilities to Mason as an employee, as a young person who has been with the club since the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner.
"The fact-finding phase of our investigation is now complete, and we are in the final stages of making a decision on Mason's future.
"Contrary to media speculation, that decision has not yet been made and is currently the subject of intensive internal deliberation. Responsibility ultimately rests with the Chief Executive Officer.
"Once made, the decision will be communicated and explained to the club's internal and external stakeholders.
"This has been a difficult case for everyone associated with Manchester United, and we understand the strong opinions it has provoked based on the partial evidence in the public domain. We ask for patience as we work through the final stages of this carefully considered process."
The Guardian reported earlier this month that part of Man Utd's reasoning to delay announcing a decision was they wanted to consult their players who are currently on international duty at the Women's World Cup. However, this has led to those stars - Katie Zelem, Ella Toone and Mary Earps - receiving a brunt of vile abuse on social media from fans calling for Greenwood's return.
Meanwhile, The Athletic reported on Wednesday that CEO Richard Arnold planned to announce Greenwood's return to the club on August 4 but decided to push back the date.
Alongside a protest against the club's Glazer family owners, some Man Utd supporters protested against the potential reintegration of Greenwood prior to Monday's 1-0 win at home to Wolves.
When asked in pre-season about whether Greenwood would return to the fold, manager Erik ten Hag declined to comment.
90min revealed in July that Man Utd had held talks with Serie A side Atalanta over a loan for Greenwood, while Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund retained an interest.
Greenwood remains under contract at Old Trafford until 2025 with the option for a further year.
This article was originally published on 90min as Man Utd provide update on internal Mason Greenwood investigation.
