Mason Greenwood has reportedly been told that he will not be able to return to Manchester United training until at least next season, as the club’s international investigation into his arrest on rape charges is unlikely to be completed before the summer.
The 21-year-old striker has been suspended by United since January 2022, when allegations of attempted rape and assault surfaced, leading to his arrest and prosecution. However, Greater Manchester Police dropped all charges last month.
Greenwood is said to have held extensive talks with United officials in recent weeks, during which he stressed his desire to return as soon as possible and his commitment to staying at Old Trafford, where he is under contract until 2025.
The club, on the other hand, is adamant that they will not be rushed into making a decision and are continuing to conduct due diligence into the circumstances surrounding his arrest and off-field behavior.
The club is split on the issue, with football staff arguing that he should be given another chance, but commercial executives more wary due to concerns about the potential damage to United’s reputation.
Sponsors Nike, EA Sports, and Cadbury all dumped Greenwood after the allegations first emerged.
His shirt is no longer for sale, although his number 11 squad number has not been reallocated.
The former England Under-21 striker has continued to receive his £70,000-a-week wages since being suspended.
The remaining value of his contract is understood to be £8.1m, which the club may have to pay off if they choose to dismiss him at the end of the season.