Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has reportedly spoken with Mason Greenwood for the first time since the forward's criminal charges were dropped.
In January 2022, Greenwood was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault following accusations from a woman, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.
The 21-year-old was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, with a trial date set for this November.
However, Greater Manchester Police recently revealed that all charges against Greenwood had been dropped.
"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," said a spokesperson for the Crown Prosecution Service.
"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."
© Reuters
Man United are currently determining their next steps when it comes to Greenwood, with the club facing the decision of whether to release him or integrate him back into the squad.
"Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped," read the club's statement after the charges were dropped.
"The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete."
There is allegedly a split among the Man United staff when it comes to Greenwood, with some believing that he should be able to play again, while others would be 'deeply unhappy' if he returned.
The Red Devils have not put a timeframe on the decision, and a final call is not believed to be imminent, as the club weigh up a number of complicated factors surrounding the situation.
© Reuters
According to The Sun, Man United boss Ten Hag spoke with Greenwood over the phone after it was announced that the charges had been dropped.
The report claims that the Englishman 'really appreciated' the call from the manager, who wanted to know Greenwood's physical and mental state.
Ten Hag allegedly made it clear to the forward that it will be the club's decision whether he returns.
Greenwood has a contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2025, with the option of a further 12 months, and it is believed that he collects in the region of £100,000 a week in terms of wages.
The Englishman has scored 35 goals and registered 12 assists in 129 appearances for the Red Devils, with his last appearance coming against West Ham United last January.
Matt Law
