Several Manchester United personnel have reportedly voiced “shame” about the club’s plan to bring Mason Greenwood back to Old Trafford this season. An internal inquiry has been continuing and is nearing completion, with the club likely to make a decision soon.
After all criminal charges against the 21-year-old were dropped in January, United launched their own investigation, and while a statement released on Wednesday insisted that no commitment had been made either way – The Athletic have claimed that senior club staff were told that plans to bring Greenwood back were in the works.
Richard Arnold, the company’s CEO, had been tasked with managing the probe, and he planned to create a video justifying the choice to keep Greenwood, which was scheduled to be published on August 4. However, it was delayed, and the club has clarified that no such confirmation has been made, despite claims that Greenwood’s comeback has been planned.
Several United employees have expressed a “sense of shame” and are “deeply troubled” by the approach that led to Greenwood’s reinstatement, arguing that the club has not created a working atmosphere in which such choices can be contested.
United’s statement on Wednesday stated that the probe was partially completed while pleading for patience. “Following the dismissal of all charges against Mason Greenwood in February 2023, Manchester United conducted an extensive investigation into the allegations made against him,” stated the statement.
“We have heard from numerous people with direct involvement or knowledge of the case, and we have drawn on extensive evidence and context that are not in the public domain.” The alleged victim’s welfare and perspective have been essential to the club’s inquiries throughout this process, and we respect her right to lifelong anonymity.
“We also have obligations to Mason as an employee, as a young man who has been with the club since he was seven years old, and as a new father with a partner.” Our investigation’s fact-finding phase is now complete, and we are nearing the end of reaching a judgment about Mason’s future.
“Contrary to media speculation, that decision has yet to be made and is currently under intense internal deliberation.” The Chief Executive Officer is ultimately responsible. When a decision is reached, it will be communicated and explained to the club’s internal and external stakeholders.
“This has been a difficult case for everyone associated with Manchester United, and we understand the strong feelings it has elicited based on the limited evidence available in the public domain.” We appeal for your patience while we complete the last stages of this well planned process.”
