Mason Greenwood ‘could face TV interview’ as part of Man Utd return plan
Mason Greenwood could face a TV interview as part of a phased plan to return to the Manchester United squad, it has been claimed.
The attacker remains suspended by the Red Devils after charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive behaviour were dropped by the Crown Prosecution Service last month. Greenwood has been suspended by United since January 2022 with an internal investigation ongoing.
The striker has a contract with United that runs until the summer of 2025 and he continues to receive his £75,000 per week wages in full. The option of Greenwood returning to the first-team squad remains on the table, depending on the outcome of the investigation.
According to The Athletic, that could be part of a ‘phased’ reintroduction which is ‘firmly under consideration’. No decision has been taken yet, but plans are being put in place for a possible return.
If United do opt for a phased return, it is claimed that may include putting Greenwood in front of a television interview. In such a scenario, it is said he would be ‘challenged’ on the events that led to his suspension.
United are declining to comment further while their internal investigation is ongoing and there are not thought to be any active discussions with broadcasters over a possible interview. As well as an interview, United will be taking into account the views of fan groups, sponsors and the women’s team.
Greenwood, 21, will be encouraged to receive counselling or therapy ahead of a broader rehabilitation. According to the report, the Red Devils may look to frame Greenwood as a young man who has made mistakes and is remorseful if he is given the chance to return.
United believe they have a responsibility to help rehabilitate a player who has been part of the club since the age of six. The internal investigation is being run by senior executives, including the club’s legal counsel.
The final decision after the findings are given will be taken by co-owner Joel Glazer and chief executive Richard Arnold. All scenarios remain on the table though, with the club wary that bringing Greenwood back into the fold could damage their reputation.
United’s investigation remains ongoing, with the CPS having now discontinued their proceedings against Greenwood. The CPS said in a statement: “In this case a combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction
“In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case. We have explained our decision to all parties.”
Greenwood has also spoken out, saying in a statement: “I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time.”
