Mason Greenwood’s Manchester United career hangs in the balance after club change plan for striker

Mason Greenwood once a promising talent at Manchester United now finds his future with the club shrouded in uncertainty, as the management looks to its female players for insight during the final stages of a prolonged investigation.

The deliberations have left the 21-year-old striker in a state of limbo, his professional career at Old Trafford in jeopardy.

Since his arrest in January 2022, Greenwood’s association with the club has been in limbo, with no appearances or training sessions.

The charges against him—attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault occasioning actual bodily harm—were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service in February.

However, this development prompted an internal investigation into his continued role within the club.

The highly anticipated announcement concerning Greenwood’s future, originally expected before the opening match of the season against Wolves, has been delayed.

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Speculation is rife that Manchester United intends to involve stakeholders and members of the women’s team, currently participating in the World Cup, in the decision-making process.

This approach, however, has drawn sharp criticism from fans who argue that such an important decision should rest with the club’s hierarchy rather than being placed on the shoulders of female players.

While the final verdict will ultimately be made by Chief Executive Richard Arnold, it’s evident that multiple perspectives will play a role in influencing the decision.

Opinions from both the men’s and women’s teams, supporters, and stakeholders will likely shape the outcome.

A concerning report emerged in February, portending possible challenges for Greenwood’s return. According to The Athletic, there exists a palpable sense of discomfort among members of the United Women’s dressing room regarding Greenwood’s potential comeback.

Natalie Burrell, founder of the Manchester United Women’s Supporters’ Club, echoed this sentiment, expressing her belief that allowing Greenwood to return would be detrimental to the club’s reputation and the progress it has made in women’s football initiatives.

Burrell stated, “I don’t think he should play again for Manchester United. It’s one of the biggest clubs in the world. They need to make a statement, and letting him back would be the worst thing they could do. It would set our club back in terms of what we’re trying to do with our women’s team and campaigns like Her Game Too, which are trying to encourage women to play and watch football.”

Reports suggest that Manchester United has been considering a phased approach to Greenwood’s potential comeback, involving counseling for the player and a potential TV interview if he continues to be under contract with the club.

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However, this strategy has garnered opposition, with a faction of female United fans organizing protests against Greenwood’s return.

As a sign of their dissent, four supporters were seen outside the stadium, brandishing a banner with the message: “Female Fans Demand No Greenwood Return – End Violence Against Women.”

The complex situation surrounding Greenwood’s uncertain future highlights the intricate challenges football clubs face in managing both individual careers and broader societal responsibilities.

Manchester United’s delicate decision-making process underscores the growing importance of accountability and inclusivity within professional sports, while also reflecting the influence that social and cultural values can exert on the outcomes of such matters.

As the club navigates this tumultuous terrain, the spotlight remains on how they balance the aspirations of their players with the expectations of their diverse fan base and the broader community.