Row over Mason Greenwood future at Man Utd – but Erik ten Hag is ‘open’ to star’s return as pre-season begins
A ROW over Mason Greenwood’s future at Manchester United has been sparked after manager Erik ten Hag was said to be “open” to the star’s return.
The suspended striker, 21, was charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour after a woman posted images online in January last year.
All charges were then dropped by the Crown Prosecution in February this year after a key witnesses withdrew their evidence.
Greenwood, who is on £75,000-a-week, was suspended from the Premier League club on full pay when the allegations were first made.
Man United execs are now set to make a decision on Greenwood’s return this month.
And boss Erik ten Hag is said to be willing to let the Bradford-born player back in the squad.
The club started their own investigation when claims against Greenwood came to light.
Ten Hag will now decide what to do based on the findings and believes there is a place for the England international in the team, reports The Athletic.
Negotiations over Greenwood’s review have taken longer than expected with some speculating he’ll be kicked to the curb, the outlet continued.
However, it shows the club’s “thoroughness and seriousness” during their investigation.
The Sun understands most of his team-mates at Old Trafford would welcome him back into the dressing room if the club agrees.
However, it could trigger a wave of controversy after United’s women players called for Greenwood to go earlier this year.
A source claimed Greenwood and his teammates made it clear to United owners Glazer – who will be making the final call – that they need to “sack him or back him”.
The source said: “Mason was delighted to hear that the manager and most of his team-mates would welcome him back.
“He firmly believes he is an innocent man and is very frustrated he’s not been able to play.
“He understands that the club have had to carry out an investigation, but he feels like his career is slipping by.
“He and his team have made clear to United that they now want to know what is happening.
“They have basically said, ‘sack him or back him’.
“If they want to reintegrate him, then do so. If they want to sell him, then tell him.
“And if they want to loan him out, then tell them so his team can find the best club for him.”
It comes after The Sun revealed on Saturday former United boss Jose Mourinho had telephoned Greenwood to sound him out about a loan move to Italian Serie A side Roma.
A source said: “Jose rang Mason’s dad and also spoke with Mason. He told him the best way out of his current situation is to start playing football — and that eventually all the hassle will fade away.
“Mason was pleased that he got in touch and it has lifted his spirits.
“He wants to get back playing and is just waiting for United to tell him what the future holds.”
Greenwood, who has one full cap for England, last kicked a ball for United in January 2022.
Fans with shirts bearing his name were told they could exchange them for free and the club removed all Greenwood-related merchandise from its website and megastore.
Nike also ended its multi-million pound sponsorship deal with him while EA Sports removed the player from its FIFA 22 video game.
Greenwood is set to become a dad later this month, with his partner, recently enjoying a baby shower with pals.
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