MASON GREENWOOD is desperate to stay at Manchester United — and has told pals: ‘I’ve learned so much.’
The suspended striker, 21, is said to be thrilled after Adidas backed his return following “positive” talks with the club.
Adidas are United’s biggest sponsors after signing a ten-year, £750million deal in 2015. It is believed other sponsors are set to follow suit.
A final decision on Greenwood’s future is set to be made before the Prem season starts, with the Red Devils opening against Wolves on August 14.
But Adidas’ intervention may seal a sensational comeback to Old Trafford after weeks of speculation that he could go out on loan.
The striker has been suspended since January 2022 amid his arrest for attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour.
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But since all the charges were dropped, he is desperate to rebuild his life and wants to resume his Red Devils career.
A source said: “He’s being encouraged to speak publicly and to have his voice heard.
“But, privately, he has told those close to him that he has learned a huge amount.
“He became a father for the first time earlier this month and realises he has to grow up.
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“He is grateful to Adidas — to have a sponsor like that in his corner means the world.”
Greenwood remains suspended but a new training regime has been drawn up by United staff and he is being monitored.
The forward has not kicked a ball for the club since his arrest when a woman made a series of allegations on social media.
He was suspended and fans with shirts bearing his name were told they could exchange them for free.
The club also removed all Greenwood merchandise from their website and megastore.
Nike even ended their multi-million pound sponsorship deal with him, while EA Sports removed the player from the Fifa 22 video game.
The Prem ace was charged in October last year and was due to stand trial this November.
But on February 2, prosecutors dramatically dropped charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive controlling behaviour.
Greenwood hoped it would pave the way for a return.
But the club announced they were carrying out their own investigation and he was told he remained suspended on full pay, said to be £75,000 a week.
Any return by Greenwood is likely to spark controversy.
Earlier this year, it was revealed Manchester United women’s team did not want him back at the club.
In March, Natalie Burrell, founder of United Women’s Supporters’ Club, said: “I don’t want to see him coming out at Old Trafford again.”
United have had contact with three Italian teams — Juventus, AC Milan and Inter Milan — over a loan move.
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Greenwood, who joined United aged six, has made 129 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 35 goals.
A club spokesman declined to comment. And last night an Adidas spokesperson said: “As sponsors, we have no influence over team line-ups.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
