Mason Greenwood’s journey at Manchester United has come to a premature end, a development that has divided opinion not just within the United fan base but the world at large.
The decision which comes after the conclusion of the club’s internal probe, sees a highly-gifted attacker who joined the club at just six years, exit through the back door aged 21.
Having debuted for United at 17 and becoming the club’s youngest Champions League player, Greenwood had previously been tipped as one of the best English players of his generation.
The Bradford-born prodigy established himself as a dependable goal machine in southwest of central Manchester, his exploits catapulting him to the England National team.
Greenwood made his maiden Three Lions bow in September 2020 away to Iceland. What followed was not much to be desired. Head coach Gareth Southgate sent him home with Manchester City’s Phil Foden after they flaunted COVID-19 protocols by sneaking women into their hotel rooms.
The striker has never been called to the England national team again. He however continued to play for his club until early 2022 when he was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.
19 months since he last kicked a ball in a professional match, United have confirmed Greenwood is leaving the club on mutual consent.
January 30, 2022: Greenwood is arrested by Greater Manchester Police based on a woman’s social media accusations. Manchester United suspends him.
January 31, 2022: Sportswear giant Nike suspends partnership, citing concern over allegations. He is removed from FIFA 22.
February 1, 2022: He is further arrested for sexual assault and threats. He is released on bail, the following day, pending further investigation.
February 7, 2022: Nike officially ends sponsorship with Greenwood. Manchester United offers fans an opportunity to exchange replica shirts bearing his name.
October 15, 2022: Mason Greenwood is arrested again, authorities cite breach of bail conditions.
October 17, 2022: Appears in court for assault and coercive behaviour charges He only confirms his name, date of birth, and address.
November 21, 2022: Trial date set for November 2023.
February 2, 2023: Charges dropped due to withdrawn witnesses and new evidence. United announce their own internal probe.
February 6, 2023: Nike maintains that it has no association with Greenwood despite his social media update with a link to them.
May 30, 2023: Manchester United manager comments on Greenwood’s status. Erik ten Hag says it is not his decision if Greenwood plays for the club again or not.
August 12, 2023: United delay decision on Greenwood’s future. Club says members of their women’s team will have to be consulted first before a decision is reached.
August 17, 2023: Manchester United says their internal probe has come to an end. However, a decision on Greenwood’s future is yet to be made.
August 21, 2023: Manchester United that they have agreed to part ways with their academy graduate on mutual consent.
His Manchester United story ends after 15 years. He leaves having scored 22 goals and provided four assists in 83 Premier League games for the Red Devils since making his debut in 2018.
His last goal for the club came on January 19, 2021, scoring in a 3-1 Premier League win at Brentford. Anthony Elanga and Marcus Rashford were United’s other scorers on the afternoon.
