Manchester United have released a statement on the future of Mason Greenwood, with the club concluding their internal investigation into the events that led to his arrest in January 2022.
At the start of last year, the England international was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault, and he was then further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.
The 21-year-old was also facing charges of attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm, but the charges have now all been dropped, meaning that he is free to resume his career during the 2023-24 campaign.
Man United had initially been expected to make an announcement ahead of their first match of the new Premier League campaign against Wolverhampton Wanderers, but the decision was ultimately delayed.
The club's chief operating officer Collette Roche recently provided an update on the situation, and there has now been an official statement from the club.
"Following the dropping of all charges against Mason Greenwood in February 2023, Manchester United has conducted a thorough investigation into the allegations made against him," read the statement on Wednesday afternoon.
"This has drawn on extensive evidence and context not in the public domain, and we have heard from numerous people with direct involvement or knowledge of the case.
"Throughout this process, the welfare and perspective of the alleged victim has been central to the club's inquiries, and we respect her right to lifelong anonymity.
"We also have responsibilities to Mason as an employee, as a young person who has been with the club since the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner.
"The fact-finding phase of our investigation is now complete, and we are in the final stages of making a decision on Mason's future.
"Contrary to media speculation, that decision has not yet been made and is currently the subject of intensive internal deliberation. Responsibility ultimately rests with the Chief Executive Officer.
"Once made, the decision 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 opinions it has provoked based on the partial evidence in the public domain. We ask for patience as we work through the final stages of this carefully considered process."
Greenwood, who has another two years left to run on his deal at Old Trafford, has scored 35 goals and registered 12 assists in 129 appearances for Man United in all competitions.
