Manchester United are set to conduct their own internal investigation into allegations against Mason Greenwood, who has had all criminal charges against him dropped.
On Thursday, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) announced that the decision had been taken to discontinue prosecution after Greenwood had originally been charged in October with one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm. He had been due to face trial in November.
A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
“In this case 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. In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case. We have explained our decision to all parties.
“We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
In their own statement, United noted the CPS decision regarding Greenwood and said they would be carrying out their own internal investigation.
The 21-year-old will not train with the club or play any matches while that process is ongoing.
“Manchester United notes the decision of the CPS that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped,” United said.
“The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete.”
Greenwood, a graduate of the club’s academy, last played for Manchester United in January 2022, around a week before the allegations against him surfaced online. He was subsequently suspended by the club following his arrest.
In his own short statement released on Thursday, Greenwood said: “I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time.”
