In January 2022, Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood was arrested after allegations emerged online from his former girlfriend.
Subsequently, he was suspended by the club whilst the case was on-going.
Consequently, in October, Greenwood was charged with attempted rape and assault.
However, on the 2nd February 2023, the 21 year old had his attempted rape charges dropped.
This came as a result of key witnesses dropping out, and new material arriving which meant there was “no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.”
As a result, a debate emerges as to whether Manchester United should allow Greenwood to be reintegrated into the United squad, or should release him entirely.
Why some may believe Greenwood should return
Ultimately, as the charges have been dropped, some may believe that the former England international should be given his place back. Therefore, if he’s not been proven guilty, there’s no reason why the young forward shouldn’t play for United again.
He’s seen as a promising player who before the incident was a crucial part of the team and so with him having his charges dropped, it would be beneficial to the squad to bring him back.
Why some may believe Greenwood shouldn’t return
With the charges being dropped as a result of key witnesses dropping out, and the prospect of conviction being no longer realistic, some feel as Greenwood hasn’t officially been found not guilty, he still shouldn’t be allowed to return. Furthermore, it may be seen that by letting Greenwood return, it sets a bad precedent for Manchester United and their ethical and moral standpoint.
Although he wasn’t found guilty, people heard the audio recording, and so can’t look past what they heard. In addition, according to reports, the Manchester United women’s team are seen to be distressed at the idea of Greenwood returning. This comes due to the issue that women feel they can’t speak up against sexual assault. Therefore, by letting Greenwood return it may be seen to associate the club with such viewpoints.
Manchester United statement
As a result of the news, Manchester United have noted the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service and “will now conduct its own process before determining it’s next steps. We will not make any further comment until the process is complete.”
Manchester United are now put in an incredibly difficult position. The possible return of such a talented footballer could help improve the team and elevate their position in the table. However, such decisions could alienate a huge majority of the United fanbase particularly with women. Thus, through this process, United will weigh up whether his return out ways the potential PR disaster that could unfold if United let the Englishman play for the club again.
Such disaster could lead to fans boycotting the club, the loss of major sponsors and potentially major walkouts of players particularly in the women’s team. Therefore, with United’s integrity and soul at stake, the club has a big decision to make in the upcoming months.