Manchester United has a history of grooming young hotshots into world-class players. The first example that comes to our minds would probably be Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese developed his talents massively at Carrington and became one of the best players in history. The English club had the same goal for one other player; Mason Greenwood.
The young forward was an explosive striker, with the rare ability to bang in goals with both feet. It was almost as if he had no weaknesses in his offensive talents. The ultimate dream came crashing down when he was accused of r*pe and se*ual abuse by Harriet Robson.
United suspended the player in January 2022 after some disturbing videos and images came to light. The police brought Greenwood into custody for questioning just hours after the videos made waves on social media.
BREAKING | Man Utd footballer Mason Greenwood has been charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, the Crown Prosecution Service said.
Statement below: pic.twitter.com/xLp5BoLD8A
— Gareth Davies (@GD10) October 15, 2022
The Crown Prosecution Service charged Greenwood later in 2022, in October. This meant that his soccer career was at stake, which was heartbreaking for United fans considering the potential he displayed. However, it must also be mentioned that an individual was allegedly left traumatized by Greenwood’s actions.
In February 2023, all the charges filed against Greenwood were dropped, which meant he could return to the pitch once again. But United confirmed that the suspension was still active and that the club will conduct a separate investigation into the allegations.
Mason Greenwood makes it to Manchester United’s ‘retain’ list
Multiple sources have reported over the months that Greenwood might be shipped off on loan to another league. Many disputed the decision but there was some support for the news as well. Moreover, it was also alleged that the English player had gotten back together with Harriet Robson, the woman who accused him. Just days later, Robson’s pregnancy was revealed to the world, and Greenwood was confirmed to be the father of the baby.
Mason Greenwood is due to become a father, having recently learned that his partner, Harriet Robson, is pregnant.
The couple are “looking forward” to the summer arrival.
✍️ @SunSport pic.twitter.com/73GQWkiskY
— Football Tweet ⚽ (@Football__Tweet) February 25, 2023
Greenwood has not played under ten Hag until now. The club has had a breath of fresh air this season, winning the Carabao Cup with the Dutchman. Although they missed out on the FA Cup and Europa League, it must be noted that ten Hag has improved United’s results massively within just a season. It is all the more impressive considering he did not have an explosive striker in the team.
🚨 Source: “The manager [Erik ten Hag] enquired how he [Mason Greenwood] was feeling physically and mentally and said he was pleased the charges had been dropped. He [Ten Hag] thought it was the right thing to do to get in touch with Mason [Greenwood].” @SunSport
— UtdPlug (@UtdPlug) February 10, 2023
ten Hag spoke out after the charges were dropped, and even confirmed that he got in touch with the player. Recently, it was confirmed that Manchester United have included Mason Greenwood in the ‘retain’ list. This would be the names of the players where United will retain Greenwood, according to the official list disclosed recently.
🚨🚨| BREAKING: Mason Greenwood is on the list of players being retained by #mufc this summer. pic.twitter.com/ggI24wpxs0
— centredevils. (@centredevils) June 16, 2023
It would certainly be good news for some United fans, but some believe that he should not be allowed to play for the club once again. Whatever the case, the main reason Greenwood’s name is included in the list is that he still has an active contract at the club. As per multiple sources, his United career remains a huge question.