Manchester United ‘are considering a U-turn’ over plans to bring back Mason Greenwood into the first-team fold – with club chiefs ‘believing there is no way back’ after ferocious fan backlash
- United are yet to make their decision on whether to reintegrate Greenwood
- Reports claim that Man United’s hierarchy have reconsidered their stance
- WATCH: Wiegman CAN’T recall Lauren James, Mail Sport’s Chris Sutton says
Manchester United’s chiefs now believe that there is ‘no way back’ for Mason Greenwood following recent fan backlash, according to reports.
Mail Sport revealed last week that United’s decision to consult with their women’s team and sponsors was a clear indication that the club is about to end Greenwood’s 18-month suspension.
However, after backlash from supporters, fan groups and public figures that followed from the news, reports suggest that the Red Devils now do not plan to reintegrate him into their squad.
According to The Sun, the United hierarchy feel that – after the recent public outcry – there is ‘no way back’ into the squad for the 21-year-old.
The outlet claim that clubs chiefs are ‘rapidly rewriting statements’ regarding their decision over Greenwood’s potential reintegration.
Man United are reportedly set to U-turn on the decision to reintegrate Mason Greenwood
A group of Man United supporters protested before the club’s first home game of the season, outlining their opposition to reintegrate 21-year-old striker Greenwood into the first team
Greenwood has been suspended by United for the last 18 months following his arrest in January 2022, with the player unable to play for the club or even train with his team-mates at Carrington.
In February, the Crown Prosecution Service announced the charges against Greenwood had been dropped following the withdrawal of ‘key witnesses’ in the case.
After the criminal case was closed, Manchester United vowed to ‘conduct its own process before determining next steps’ – which have yet to be confirmed.
It had been reported that Arnold told senior staff that Greenwood would be returning to the club two weeks ago on August 4.
According to The Athletic, Arnold intended to record and share a video explaining Greenwood’s reintegration with the men’s first team to staff and the general public.
Arnold’s original plan was for Greenwood not to be involved in any appearances with the club’s charitable arm, the Manchester United Foundation.
But in a statement on Wednesday, United insisted no decision had been made.
‘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,’ the club said.
‘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.
There have been reports chief executive Richard Arnold told senior staff a fortnight ago that Greenwood would be coming back
Manchester United had been expected to reintegrate Mason Greenwood into their team prior to club CEO Richard Arnold denying that a decision had been made on the matter
‘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’s last outing for United came in a home win over West Ham in January 2022
The United supporters made their feelings clear outside Old Trafford with a banner reading: ‘Female fans demand. End violence against women. No Greenwood return.’
Another fan was seen raising a sign at Old Trafford which said: ‘Don’t leave the decision up to the women’s team you spineless motherless f****.’
Greenwood is currently under contract for another two years until 2025 with the option of additional year, with his deal worth £75,000 a week.
He has been seen working out with a fitness trainer at a local public pitch, and his former United team-mate Anthony Elanga who has now joined Nottingham Forest.
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