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      Mason Greenwood LATEST: Manchester United break silence over star’s future as he has all charges dropped

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      MANCHESTER United’s Mason Greenwood has had all charges of attempted rape and assault against him dropped.The Manchester United striker, 21, was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      But charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control were today dropped after the Crown Prosecution Service said a number of “key witnesses” withdrew and “new material” came to light.
      A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review. 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.”
      And in a statement released this evening on Greenwood’s future, Manchester United said:  “The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps. We will not make any further comment until that process is complete.”
      Read our Mason Greenwood blog below…
      This blog is now closed…
      Our Mason Greenwood blog has now been closed…
      But you can follow our Mason Greenwood coverage here.
      Mason Greenwood’s history at the club
      Greenwood joined Man Utd aged six to play for the club’s development school in Halifax, West Yorkshire.
      He progressed through to join the under-18 squad for the 2017-18 season.
      Greenwood then made his first-team competitive debut as an 87th-minute substitute in the team’s 3-1 win against PSG in the Champions League in March 2019.
      And his first goal for the club came in their Europa League opener against Kazakh side Astana in September 2019.
      Gary Neville ‘condemns violence against women’ after Greenwood-related Twitter like
      Manchester United legend and Sky Sports pundit Gary Neville has taken to Twitter to defend liking a tweet about Mason Greenwood.
      The tweet in question, shared by Nazir Afzal, the former director of public prosecutions, read: “Mason Greenwood has had all charges against him dropped by the Prosecutors What’s changed you may ask?
      “It appears that (some) witnesses will no longer support a prosecution & new evidence came to light It happens.”He is an innocent man, that’s all we need to know.”
      In response to backlash for liking the tweet, Mr Neville responded: “I liked a tweet relating to the Mason Greenwood news this afternoon from Nazir Afzal. ( the former director of public prosecutions ).”This like is being misinterpreted. It was a clumsy like as I obviously condemn any violence against women.”
      Mason Greenwood has all charges against him dropped
      Greenwood, 21, had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      His name has also remained on Man Utd’s first-team squad list on its official website.
      Greenwood was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      What were the alleged offences?
      Man U footballer Mason Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The CPS has dropped all charges against Greenwood
      Mason Greenwood has charges dropped by CPS
      MASON Greenwood has had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      The Manchester United striker, 21, was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      Greenwood was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      The Crown Prosecution today confirmed they had dropped all charges against him.
      What has the Crown Prosecution Service said?
      A spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Greenwood missed out on Three Lions’ World Cup campaign last year
      In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the striker his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.
      Greenwood missed out on last year’s Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in Qatar as the case went to court.
      Utd have not yet released a statement following the development.
      Mason Greenwood remains on Man United’s Premier League squad list
      MASON Greenwood has remained on Manchester United’s squad list after his charges were dropped.
      The forward, 21, has his name on the first-team page on the official website in a possible indication he could resume his football career.
      Read more on the story here.

      Why were the charges dropped against Mason Greenwood? (2/2)
      “In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case. We have explained our decision to all parties.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, added: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.”
      Why were the charges dropped against Mason Greenwood? (1/2)
      The CPS said that their decision to drop the charges was made with the case under “continuous review”.
      They also said the decision was made in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.
      Speaking on the case, a CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.

      BREAKING: Mason Greenwood releases statement
      Following the news that all charges would be dropped, Greenwood said: “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.”
      When was Mason Greenwood arrested?
      Greenwood was first arrested in January 2022, after police swooped in on his £15,000-a-month rented home.
      He was originally remanded in custody after and spent three nights there, before being charged by police on October 15.
      However, a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The 21-year-old was then due to stand trial in November.He was also suspended from Man Utd, but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      What were the charges against Mason Greenwood?
      Man U footballer Mason Greenwood was accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      The footballer was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years.
      This included making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      Mason Greenwood’s history at the club
      Greenwood joined Man Utd aged six to play for the club’s development school in Halifax, West Yorkshire.
      He progressed through to join the under-18 squad for the 2017-18 season.
      Greenwood then made his first-team competitive debut as an 87th-minute substitute in the team’s 3-1 win against PSG in the Champions League in March 2019.
      And his first goal for the club came in their Europa League opener against Kazakh side Astana in September 2019.
      The decision has not been taken lightly, says Greater Manchester Police
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, said today: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.
      “An ever increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
      “If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.”
      When did Greenwood last play for Manchester United?
      Greenwood last played for the Red Devils on January 22 last year when the team beat West Ham 1-0.
      The player joined the club aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.
      In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for United in the Champions League when he took to the pitch aged 17.
      BREAKING: Manchester United releases statement
      A statement from Manchester United Football Cub reads:
      “Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.
      The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps.
      “We will not make any further comment until that process is complete.”
      Greenwood suspended by club during trial
      During the trial,  Mason Greenwood was suspended from Utd but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Greenwood was removed from FIFA 22 and dropped by sponsors Nike in the wake of the allegations.
      Football Manager 2022 also confirmed he would not feature in the game.
      All merchandise bearing the No11’s name was axed from the official Utd site and teammates unfollowed him on Instagram.
      Greenwood was originally remanded in custody
      The footballer was originally remanded in custody after being charged by police on October 15.
      But a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The striker also spent three nights in custody after he was arrested at his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford last January.
      What were the alleged offences?
      Man U footballer Mason Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The CPS has dropped all charges against Greenwood
      Statement from the Crown Prosecution Service
      This afternoon a CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Mason Greenwood has charges dropped by CPS
      MASON Greenwood has had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      The Manchester United striker, 21, was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      Greenwood was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      The Crown Prosecution today confirmed they had dropped all charges against him.
      Load more entries… More

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      Mason Greenwood told to stay away from Manchester United until club conducts own investigation after CPS drops charges

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      MASON Greenwood has been told to stay away from Manchester United until the club decides what to do with him.The 21-year-old had charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault all against the same woman dropped today.
      Man United are conducting its own investigation into the allegations against Mason GreenwoodCredit: AFP
      But the club now wants to conduct its own internal investigation into the circumstances around the allegations brought against the player.
      That has started and United has not put a time frame on how long it will take.
      They did not want to begin that process previously in case it interfered with ongoing criminal proceedings.
      In the meantime, Greenwood will not be able to return to the club’s Carrington Training base or be involved with the squad in any capacity, despite the case against him not going to trial.
      READ MORE ON MASON GREENWOOD
      His name has remained on Man Utd’s first-team squad list on its official website, a possible indication he could resume his football career.
      The player broke his silence on the charges being dropped in a statement issued on Thursday.
      Greenwood said: “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.”
      Most read in Football
      Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The footballer was originally remanded in custody after being charged by police on October 15.
      But a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The striker also spent three nights in custody after he was arrested at his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford last January.
      He was suspended from Utd but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Greenwood was removed from FIFA 22 and dropped by sponsors Nike in the wake of the allegations.
      Football Manager 2022 also confirmed he would not feature in the game.
      All merchandise bearing the No11’s name was axed from the official Utd site and teammates unfollowed him on Instagram.
      Greenwood last played for the Red Devils on January 22 last year when the team beat West Ham 1-0.
      The player joined the club aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.
      In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for United in the Champions League when he took to the pitch aged 17.
      Greenwood has made 129 appearances in total for the Red Devils and netted 35 goals.
      Read More on The Sun
      In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the striker his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.
      Greenwood missed out on last year’s Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in Qatar as the case went to court. More

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      Gary Neville sparks Twitter storm after liking tweet about Mason Greenwood before deleting it and apologising

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      FOOTIE pundit Gary Neville sparked a Twitter storm last night after liking, retweeting and then deleting a tweet about Mason Greenwood.The Manchester United striker, 21, had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control dropped on Thursday.
      Gary Neville sparked a Twitter storm after liking, retweeting and then deleting a tweet about Mason GreenwoodCredit: PA
      Mason Greenwood had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control dropped on ThursdayCredit: AFP
      Fury erupted online when Neville engaged with a post from Nazir Afzal, the former CPS director of public prosecutions.
      Mr Afzal said Greenwood was “an innocent man, that’s all we need to know” adding “You are innocent till PROVEN guilty”.
      He went on: “We don’t have trial by media. We don’t have evidence that any witnesses were lying. We don’t do “victim or complainant blaming”.
      The comments sparked fury with many referencing the photos and audio clip that saw Greenwood arrested and charged for attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      Read More on Mason Greenwood
      The claims, now dropped, related to one woman and are said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Neville, 47, swiftly removed his engagement with the post, before issuing an apology.
      The former Man U right back said: “I liked a tweet relating to the Mason Greenwood news this afternoon from Nazir Afzal. ( the former director of public prosecutions).
      “This like is being misinterpreted. It was a clumsy like as I obviously condemn any violence against women.”
      Most read in Football
      After the charges were dropped by the CPS, Greenwood said: “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.”
      ‘DETERMINING NEXT STEPS’
      It follows a statement from his club where they said they are now “determining next steps” for the player.
      They added: “Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.
      “The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps.”
      Greenwood was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      He was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      A spokesperson Crown Prosecution Service said today: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      Read More on The Sun
      “We have explained our decision to all parties.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Fury erupted online when Neville engaged with a post from Nazir Afzal, the former director of public prosecutionsCredit: Twitter
      Mr Neville apologised for engaging in Nazi Afzal’s tweetCredit: Twitter More

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      Dani Alves ‘begs estranged wife for forgiveness from prison’ after she asked for divorce over club rape charge

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      DANI Alves has begged his estranged ex-wife for forgiveness after she asked for a divorce when he was charged with rape, it was reported.The Brazilian World Cup ace, 39, was locked up last month by a judge investigating claims of an assault at Barcelona’s swanky Sutton venue in the early hours of December 31.
      Joana Sanz has requested a divorce for Dani Alves, according to reportsCredit: Instagram @joanasanz
      The Spanish model has removed most photos of her with Alves from her InstagramCredit: Instagram @joanasanz
      Alves was initially denied any contact with his accuser, but is said to have changed his story and claimed they had consensual sex.
      He denies wrongdoing and remains in custody.
      Alves’s wife Joana Sanz, 29, has reportedly demanded a divorce and has removed most photos of her with the footballer from her Instagram.
      Now he has begged her for forgiveness and pleaded with her to think again about seeking a divorce, Telecino reports.
      READ MORE ON DANI ALVES
      In a call with Alves from prison Spanish model Joana has reportedly said she wants to speak to him so he can explain his version of events.
      The star’s new lawyer reportedly told a Spanish TV journalist his initial version of events was to “protect his wife” and cover up his “infidelity”.
      Top attorney Cristobal Martell – who also represented Lionel Messi in his tax fraud case – filed an appeal yesterday against the decision to remand him in custody.
      Alves promised not to leave Spain and to stay 500 metres away from his accuser’s home and work, legal papers show.
      Most read in Football
      He also offered to report to police daily and wear a tracking device 24 hours a day if he is let out of jail.
      Previously the judge had deemed ex-Barcelona FC star Alves a flight risk.
      And today new details of the ruling were revealed by the newspaper El Periodico.
      Magistrate Anna Marín decided there was case to answer after questioning the accuser and suspect at Barcelona’s court number 15 on January 20, it reported.
      According to the paper, she said “there are much more than enough indications” to consider that there was a rape “and that the suspect was the perpetrator of it”.
      The magistrate also stressed the investigation is ongoing and nothing is proved, the paper reported. More

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      Mason Greenwood breaks his silence after attempted rape and assault charges dropped

      by

      MASON Greenwood has broken his silence after attempted rape and assault charges against him were dropped.The Manchester United striker, 21, said: “I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support.
      Mason Greenwood has had all charges against him droppedCredit: Reuters
      He has now broken his silenceCredit: AFP
      “There will be no further comment at this time.”
      It follows a statement from his club where they said they will now “determine next steps” for the player.
      The club added: “Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.
      “The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps.”
      Greenwood had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      And his name has remained on Man Utd’s first-team squad list on its official website.
      Greenwood was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      He was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      Most read in Football
      The Crown Prosecution today confirmed they had dropped all charges against him.
      A spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The footballer was originally remanded in custody after being charged by police on October 15.
      But a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The striker also spent three nights in custody after he was arrested at his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford last January.
      He was suspended from Utd but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Greenwood was removed from FIFA 22 and dropped by sponsors Nike in the wake of the allegations.
      Football Manager 2022 also confirmed he would not feature in the game.
      All merchandise bearing the No11’s name was axed from the official Utd site and teammates unfollowed him on Instagram.
      Greenwood last played for the Red Devils on January 22 last year when the team beat West Ham 1-0.
      The player joined the club aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.
      In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for United in the Champions League when he took to the pitch aged 17.
      Greenwood has made 129 appearances in total for the Red Devils and netted 35 goals.
      In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the striker his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.
      Greenwood missed out on last year’s Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in Qatar as the case went to court.
      Utd have not yet released a statement following the development.
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, said today: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.
      Read More on The Sun
      “An ever increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
      “If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.” More

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      Manchester United releases statement after Mason Greenwood has all charges dropped

      by

      MANCHESTER United says it is “determining next steps” after all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against Mason Greenwood were dropped.The striker’s club added in a statement: “Manchester United notes the decision of the Crown Prosecution Service that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.
      Mason Greenwood was cleared of all charges todayCredit: Getty
      His club Man Utd released a statement after Greenwood was cleared of all chargesCredit: AFP
      “The club will now conduct its own process before determining next steps.”
      It comes after Greenwood, 21, had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      He broke his silence on the matter this afternoon, saying: “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.”
      Read More in Football
      His name has also remained on Man Utd’s first-team squad list on its official website.
      Greenwood was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      He was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      The Crown Prosecution today confirmed they had dropped all charges against him.
      Most read in Football
      A spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The footballer was originally remanded in custody after being charged by police on October 15.
      But a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The striker also spent three nights in custody after he was arrested at his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford last January.
      He was suspended from Utd but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Greenwood was removed from FIFA 22 and dropped by sponsors Nike in the wake of the allegations.
      Football Manager 2022 also confirmed he would not feature in the game.
      All merchandise bearing the No11’s name was axed from the official Utd site and teammates unfollowed him on Instagram.
      Greenwood last played for the Red Devils on January 22 last year when the team beat West Ham 1-0.
      The player joined the club aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.
      In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for United in the Champions League when he took to the pitch aged 17.
      Greenwood has made 129 appearances in total for the Red Devils and netted 35 goals.
      In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the striker his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.
      Greenwood missed out on last year’s Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in Qatar as the case went to court.
      Utd have not yet released a statement following the development.
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, said today: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.
      Read More on The Sun
      “An ever increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
      “If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.” More

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      Mason Greenwood remains on Man United’s Premier League squad list after charges dropped

      by

      MASON Greenwood has remained on Manchester United’s squad list after his charges were dropped. The forward, 21, has his name on the first-team page on the official website in a possible indication he could resume his football career.
      Mason Greenwood’s player profile is still on the websiteCredit: manutd.com
      It could be an indication he may restart his football careerCredit: manutd.com
      The striker today has all charges against him droppedCredit: PA
      His biography reads: “An exciting striker who has been well ahead of schedule in terms of his progress through the ranks at United and has made a huge impact in 2019/20.”
      He today had all charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control against him dropped.
      Greenwood was first arrested in January last year after police swooped on his mansion.
      He was due to stand trial in November accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      READ MORE ON SPORT
      The Crown Prosecution today confirmed they had dropped all charges against him.
      A spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      Most read in Football
      “We have explained our decision to all parties.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Greenwood last appeared in court in November where a trial date was set for November 23 this year.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      Greenwood was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years – including making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      The footballer was originally remanded in custody after being charged by police on October 15.
      But a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      The striker also spent three nights in custody after he was arrested at his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford last January.
      He was suspended from Utd but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Greenwood was removed from FIFA 22 and dropped by sponsors Nike in the wake of the allegations.
      Football Manager 2022 also confirmed he would not feature in the game.
      All merchandise bearing the No11’s name was axed from the official Utd site and teammates unfollowed him on Instagram.
      Greenwood last played for the Red Devils on January 22 last year when the team beat West Ham 1-0.
      The player joined the club aged just six and rose through the ranks to land himself a regular spot on the first team.
      In 2019, he became the youngest footballer to play for United in the Champions League when he took to the pitch aged 17.
      Greenwood has made 129 appearances in total for the Red Devils and netted 35 goals.
      In 2020, England manager Gareth Southgate gave the striker his first cap when Greenwood came off the bench in a 1-0 win against Iceland.
      Greenwood missed out on last year’s Three Lions’ World Cup campaign in Qatar as the case went to court.
      Utd have not yet released a statement following the development.
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, said today: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.
      Read More on The Sun
      “An ever increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
      “If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.” More

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      What were the charges against Mason Greenwood and why have they been dropped?

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      THE Crown Prosecution has today confirmed all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.The 21-year-old Manchester United striker was first arrested amid allegations after images and videos emerged online.
      The CPS has confirmed all charges against Mason Greenwood have been droppedCredit: Reuters
      What were the charges against Mason Greenwood?
      Mason Greenwood was accused of attempted rape, assault and coercive control.
      The alleged offences related to one woman and were said to have taken place between November 1, 2018, and October 15, 2022.
      The footballer was accused of “repeatedly engaging” in controlling and coercive behaviour for almost four years.
      This included making threats and derogatory comments on social media.
      Read More on Mason Greenwood
      He was also charged with attempting to rape the woman on October 21, 2021, and allegedly assaulted her between December 12, 2021, and December 31, 2021.
      When was Mason Greenwood arrested?
      Greenwood was first arrested in January 2022, after police swooped in on his £15,000-a-month rented home in Trafford.
      He was originally remanded in custody after and spent three nights there, before being charged by police on October 15.
      However, a judge released him on the condition he does not contact witnesses, including the complainant, and resides at an address in Bowdon.
      Most read in Sport
      The 21-year-old was then due to stand trial in November.
      He was also suspended from Man Utd, but still received his £75,000-a-week salary.
      Why were the charges dropped against Mason Greenwood?
      The CPS said that their decision to drop the charges was made with the case under “continuous review”.
      They also said the decision was made in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors.
      Speaking on the case, a CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review.
      “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.
      “We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”
      Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s Head of Public Protection, added: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
      “Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.
      “I would, however, like to use this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.
      Read More on The Sun
      “An ever increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
      “If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.” More