Mason Greenwood has been included in Manchester United's squad list for the rest of the season after all charges against the striker were dropped on Thursday.
The 21-year-old was arrested in January 2022 on suspicion of rape and assault following allegations posted online by a woman, including photos, videos and audio clips.
Greenwood was immediately suspended by Man United, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and making threats to kill before being released on bail.
In October 2022, Greenwood was once again arrested after an alleged breach of bail conditions, and he was charged with one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm not long after.
The former England international was due to go on trial on November 27, 2023, but Greater Manchester Police and the Crown Prosecution Service announced on Thursday that the criminal proceedings had been discontinued.
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Following the charges being dropped, Man United said that they would conduct their own internal review before making a decision on Greenwood's future with the club.
"Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped," the statement read.
"The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete."
With the January transfer window now closed, Premier League clubs have now submitted their updated squad lists for the second half of the season, and Greenwood has been included.
The striker's most recent appearance for the Red Devils came against West Ham United in the Premier League on January 22, eight days before his initial arrest and suspension.
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A CPS spokesperson revealed that "key witnesses" withdrawing and the emergence of "new material" meant that there was no longer a realistic chance of Greenwood being convicted.
"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," a statement read.
"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."
A statement was also released on Greenwood's behalf after the case was discontinued, which read: "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."
Greenwood has scored 35 goals and provided 12 assists in 129 games for Man United since coming through their youth academy.
Ben Knapton
