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      Mason Greenwood’s Man Utd career is OVER – as he releases statement saying ‘I understand people will judge me’

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      MANCHESTER United today revealed they have AXED Mason Greenwood as the striker said: “I understand people will judge me”.The 21-year-old will not be returning to Old Trafford following a club investigation into his behaviour following his January 2022 arrest.
      Mason Greenwood will not be returning to Man UtdCredit: Reuters
      In a statement released this afternoon, the club confirmed they had finished the probe into Greenwood.
      But they did not reveal what the striker’s future holds – including whether his £75,000-a-week contract will be terminated or if he will be put on loan or sold.
      Greenwood’s fate had remained uncertain after he was suspended by Utd in the wake of his charge for attempted rape, assault and coercive control – even after the case was dropped.
      The club said they had taken into account the “wishes, rights and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values, and sought to collate as much information and context as possible”.
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      Utd confirmed they examined evidence that was “not in the public domain”, including “from those with direct knowledge of the case”.
      The club added: “Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged
      “That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for.
      “All those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him recommencing his career at Manchester United.
      Most read in Football
      “It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome.”
      Greenwood also released a statement where he insisted he had not done what he was accused of but was “learning to understand my responsibilities as a professional footballer”.
      He added: “I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst.
      “I was brought up to know that violence or abuse is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.
      “However, I fully accept I made mistakes, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post. 
      “Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me.
      “The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.
      “I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown.
      “I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch.”
      Man Utd CEO Richard Arnold has also written an open letter to fans saying he wanted to be “direct and transparent” about the reasons for today’s decision.
      The chief said he felt “shock and concern” for the alleged victim when the allegations first emerged.
      He said: “While we immediately concluded that Mason should be suspended pending investigation, we were also conscious of our duty of care towards him and the importance of making a decision based on full information.
      “Until February this year, this was a matter for the police and the Crown Prosecution Service. It was only when charges were dropped that the club discussed the allegations with Mason and others involved in the case.”
      Mr Arnold said the investigation “sought to collate as much evidence as possible to establish facts and context”, which was “not quick or straightforward”.
      The CEO also said it was “essential for us to respect the rights and wishes of the alleged victim” as he concluded Greenwood did not commit the offences he was accused of.
      But he did say Greenwood has “made mistakes which takes responsibility for” as he accepted the striker now faces a challenge in rebuilding his career.
      This included the alleged victim asking police to drop the probe in April 2022 and her family “participating in the process”.
      Mr Arnold continued: “Last week the media reported that we had decided to reintegrate Mason and that elements of a plan to do so had been leaked to them.
      “Reintegration was one of the outcomes we considered and planned for. For context, over the course of the past six months several outcomes have been contemplated and planned for, and my view has evolved as our process progressed.
      “While the ultimate decision rested with me, I was taking various factors and views into account right up until the point of finalising my decision.
      “Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career away from Manchester United, that does not signal the end of this matter. The club will continue to offer its support both to the alleged victim and Mason to help them rebuild and move forward positively with their lives.
      “Thank you for your continued support.”
      The Sun told in April how Greenwood had given up on his dream of playing for the Red Devils again after telling pals he would never kick a ball for them again.
      The decision to kick him out of Old Trafford was taken by club CEO Richard Arnold in conjunction with American owner Joel Glazer following more than five months of intense discussions.
      The club finally acted after some staff voiced concerns internally about plans to bring him back into the squad despite receiving the backing of manager Erik ten Hag and the majority of the first team players.
      As it became clear United were seriously considering giving Greenwood another chance, opposition from United’s fan base grew with Countdown TV presenter Rachel Riley and Westlife singer Bryan McFadden making clear they opposed the move.
      Other supporters wrote to Arnold directly and made clear their opposition on social media while a group of female fans also staged a protest outside Old Trafford before United’s first game of the season against Wolves.
      Local politicians also urged the club to “do the right thing” after documents were leaked that detailed which pundits, journalists and politicians would be for and against Greenwood’s return.
      Among the organisations classed as “hostile” are domestic abuse charities.
      Labour MP Andrew Western, who represents the constituency of Stretford and Urmston where United’s stadium is, tweeted: “Really disappointed at how United have handled this. They should be focused on making the correct decision, speaking up in support of victims of domestic abuse & sexual assault, and acting with integrity.
      “The club must realise this isn’t a PR crisis it’s about doing what’s right.”
      His comments were echoed by Fianna Hornby, Labour Councillor for Gorse Hill and Cornbrook ward in Trafford.
      She tweeted: “I will always stand in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence, so consider me ‘hostile’.”
      United held talks with key stakeholders including kit sponsor Adidas and the women’s team to ascertain their views on bringing Greenwood back after charges against him were dropped in February.
      But they ultimately decided giving him a second chance at the club he joined aged seven was too difficult.
      A source said: “This decision has been incredibly difficult because Mason has not been convicted of anything.
      “The club has looked at every single element of this and war gamed it through.
      “But there are concerns about his behaviour and have been for some time. Ultimately, the club could not ignore that any longer.
      “Some people within the club are genuinely sad that it has come to this, and some feel very strongly that this is the only possible outcome.”
      The statements from the club and Mason in full
      Manchester United said: “Manchester United has concluded its internal investigation into the allegations made against Mason Greenwood. Our process commenced in February 2023, following all charges against Mason being dropped.
      “Throughout, we have taken into account the wishes, rights and perspective of the alleged victim along with the club’s standards and values, and sought to collate as much information and context as possible.
      “This has required us to proceed with sensitivity and care to obtain evidence not in the public domain, including from those with direct knowledge of the case.
      “Based on the evidence available to us, we have concluded that the material posted online did not provide a full picture and that Mason did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged.
      “That said, as Mason publicly acknowledges today, he has made mistakes which he is taking responsibility for. All those involved, including Mason, recognise the difficulties with him recommencing his career at Manchester United. It has therefore been mutually agreed that it would be most appropriate for him to do so away from Old Trafford, and we will now work with Mason to achieve that outcome.”
      Mason Greenwood added: “I want to start by saying I understand that people will judge me because of what they have seen and heard on social media, and I know people will think the worst. I was brought up to know that violence or abuse is wrong, I did not do the things I was accused of, and in February I was cleared of all charges.
      “However, I fully accept I made mistakes, and I take my share of responsibility for the situations which led to the social media post. I am learning to understand my responsibilities to set a good example as a professional footballer, and I’m focused on the big responsibility of being a father, as well as a good partner.
      “Today’s decision has been part of a collaborative process between Manchester United, my family and me. The best decision for us all, is for me to continue my football career away from Old Trafford, where my presence will not be a distraction for the club.
      “I thank the club for their support since I joined aged seven. There will always be a part of me which is United. I am enormously grateful to my family and all my loved ones for their support, and it is now for me to repay the trust those around me have shown.
      “I intend to be a better footballer, but most importantly a good father, a better person, and to use my talents in a positive way on and off the pitch.”

      Greenwood has been left devastated by the decision, arguing he has been found innocent by the law of the land but guilty via social media.
      A loan deal abroad had been considered as an option, but Greenwood did not want to move away from their extended family support network.
      Greenwood last kicked a ball for United 19 months ago in January 2022.
      He was arrested the same month after a woman made allegations of physical and sexual abuse on social media.
      The Prem ace was charged in October last year and was due to stand trial in November this year.
      But the CPS withdrew the case on 2 February after his alleged victim and a dozen more witnesses refused to co-operate.
      Greenwood hoped that move would leave him clear to start back playing for United, but the club immediately announced it was carrying out its own investigation to better understand the circumstances around his arrest.
      He was told he could not train or play for the club during the investigation, but remained on full pay.
      The move left Greenwood and his agent dad Andrew and mum Melanie “stunned” said a source, but they “begrudgingly” accepted the decision.
      Following Greenwood’s arrest, the club distanced itself from the star with only technical director Darren Fletcher and football director John Murtagh having any direct contact with the player.
      The Sun told how manager Erik ten Hag telephoned him after charges were dropped and he later met face-to-face with club bosses to give his side of the story.
      In recent months he has stepped up his fitness levels and hired a private coach and been photographed taking part in 1-2-1 sessions at a £85-an-year public pitch.
      He was also seen enjoying other sessions with his United teammate Anthony Elanga and Irish Serie A player James Abankwah.
      As a child Greenwood first kicked a ball aged five when his dad Andrew, 53, took him to local youth club Idle Juniors FC.
      United’s academy scouts soon came calling and offered him a place in their development centre in Halifax, West Yorks, when he was just seven.
      Richard Arnold’s open letter to fans
      Dear fans,
      Now that we have concluded and announced the outcome of the club’s investigation into Mason Greenwood, I want to be direct and transparent with our fans about the process and the reasons for our decision.
      This was an internal disciplinary investigation between employer and employee which would ordinarily take place outside of the public eye. Given the public nature of the allegations and Mason’s profile, I acknowledge that this was not an ordinary situation, but I felt it important that we still follow due process and, so far as possible, avoid media comment until I had made a definitive decision.
      [The alleged victim’s] welfare, wishes and perspective have been central to the club’s approach ever since, as have the club’s standards and values. While we immediately concluded that Mason should be suspended pending investigation, we were also conscious of our duty of care towards him and the importance of making a decision based on full information. Until February this year, this was a matter for the police and the Crown Prosecution Service. It was only when charges were dropped that the club discussed the allegations with Mason and others involved in the case.
      Our investigation sought to collate as much evidence as possible to establish facts and context. This was not a quick or straightforward process for a variety of reasons. It was essential for us to respect the rights and wishes of the alleged victim.
      Also, we have limited powers of investigation which meant we were reliant on third party cooperation. Timings have also been influenced by my desire to minimise the impact of the investigation on our men’s and women’s teams, as well as our Lionesses. I acknowledge that this gave more time for speculation, but the alternative would have been to compromise due process or create untimely disruption.
      While we were unable to access certain evidence for reasons we respect, the evidence we did collate led us to conclude that Mason did not commit the acts he was charged with. I am restricted as to what I can say for legal reasons, including the alleged victim’s ongoing right to anonymity, but I am able to share the following with you which should give you some insight into the complexity of this case.
      • The alleged victim requested the police to drop their investigation in April 2022.
      • The alleged victim’s family participated in the process and were given the opportunity to review and correct our factual findings.
      Last week the media reported that we had decided to reintegrate Mason and that elements of a plan to do so had been leaked to them. Reintegration was one of the outcomes we considered and planned for. For context, over the course of the past six months several outcomes have been contemplated and planned for, and my view has evolved as our process progressed. While the ultimate decision rested with me, I was taking various factors and views into account right up until the point of finalising my decision.
      While I am satisfied that Mason did not commit the acts he was charged with, Mason’s accepted that he has made mistakes which he takes responsibility for. I am also mindful of the challenge that Mason would face rebuilding his career… in the harsh spotlight of Manchester United. Further, this case has provoked strong opinions, and it is my responsibility to minimise any distraction to the unity we are seeking within the club.
      Although we have decided that Mason will seek to rebuild his career away from Manchester United, that does not signal the end of this matter. The club will continue to offer its support both to the alleged victim and Mason to help them rebuild and move forward positively with their lives.
      Thank you for your continued support,
      Richard Arnold.

      The talented youngster would later get a photograph alongside then player Ole Gunnar Solskjaer – who would become his manager – at United’s Cliff training ground.
      He quickly rose through the ranks at United and was top scorer for the Under-18 Premier League North and Player of the Tournament when the youth side won the ICGT trophy in the Netherlands, beating Real Madrid.
      In 2018 manager Jose Mourinho picked him as a 16-year-old to play in the club’s pre-season tour of the US.
      A few months later he signed his first pro contract with United for £800-a-week, using his dad as his agent.
      And in February 2021 United announced Greenwood had signed a new £75,000-a-week contract which would keep him at the club until 2025, with the option to extend it for another year.
      Prior to his arrest, Greenwood was valued at around £50 million and regarded as one of the hottest young talents in European football.
      Fans with replica shirts bearing his name were told they could exchange them for free and the club removed all merchandise related to the player from its website and megastore.
      Nike, which signed a boot deal with the player in 2020, also ended its multi-million pound sponsorship deal with Greenwood while EA Sports removed the player from its iconic FIFA 22 video game.
      Read More on The Sun
      Greenwood last played for United on January 22 2020 in a Premier League clash against West Ham, which United won 1-0.
      Greenwood had a string of charges dropped against himCredit: AFP
      He has not played for Utd since his arrest last JanuaryCredit: Getty More

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      Mason Greenwood’s Man Utd future in further doubt after MPs urge club to ‘do what’s right’

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      MASON Greenwood’s Man United future has been placed in further doubt after politicians voiced their opposition to an Old Trafford return.Yesterday local Labour MP Andrew Western urged the club to “do what’s right”.
      Mason Greenwood’s Man United future has been placed in further doubt after politicians voiced their opposition to an Old Trafford returnCredit: AP
      Greenwood has been suspended since he was arrested in January 2022.
      Charges of attempted rape, assault and coercive control were dropped last February.
      We revealed yesterday United are on the brink of a U-turn which could block his comeback.
      Bosses had been ready to announce the star, 21, was returning after a club probe into his conduct.
      read more on mason greenwood
      Mr Western’s comments were echoed by Trafford Labour councillor Fianna Hornby, who tweeted: “I always stand in solidarity with survivors of domestic violence.”
      A United spokesman said: “Manchester United has planned for various potential scenarios in relation to the future of Mason Greenwood.
      “This is a difficult and sensitive case.
      “It is entirely proper that we have taken a careful and thorough approach to planning for the various potential outcomes, including how we would engage with stakeholders and explain the decision after it is made.”
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      Man Utd ‘set to give Mason Greenwood statement as early as tomorrow’ after explosive U-turn on striker’s future

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      MANCHESTER United are expected to make a statement on Mason Greenwood “as early as tomorrow” after making an explosive U-turn on the striker’s future.The Premier League giants will reportedly deliver an update on Greenwood’s future following months of discussions and investigations.
      It is the second statement the club have made on the footballer after making a U-turn on his futureCredit: AFP
      Greenwood was recently spotted training in a public park before finding out his fate
      The Bradford-born player was arrested back in January 2022, resulting in an immediate suspension – but was cleared six months ago.
      With uncertainty still swirling, it comes as The Sun exclusively revealed that the 21-year-old will not be making a comeback after uproar online.
      Now, The Athletic’s David Ornstein said in an interview with NBC Sports: “We’re expecting to hear some sort of update from Manchester United as early as tomorrow.”
      However, he also added that “no final decision has been made” over the striker’s future and that “all scenarios still remain open”.
      READ MORE ON GREENWOOD
      Football expert Ornstein said: “The official line from Manchester United is that there is no final decision yet and that all scenarios remain open to them. 
      “And they are planning for them, such as re-integrating Mason Greenwood. Keep him and loan him out. Sell him or work with their lawyers to actually dismiss him.”
      Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour before the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) dropped the case in February this year.
      Manchester United have mostly remained tight-lipped over whether the star striker will return after they carried out their own probe.
      Most read in Football
      Last Wednesday, United issued a statement claiming that no decision had been made. 
      It is the second statement the club have made on Greenwood this week after officials revealed they were “in the final stages” of announcing their plans for the baller.
      But now in an explosive U-turn, the star was reportedly dumped from the squad after Utd found themselves at the centre of an uproar from fans at the prospect of his return.
      The Red Devils were ready to announce on Tuesday that he was returning to the fold.
      Chief exec Richard Arnold had reportedly intended to film a video message explaining the club’s decision, while also outlining the plan for his reintegration.
      But since that news leaked, there has been a backlash on social media which has rocked the club.
      It’s understood Arnold and Utd bosses now believe there is no way back and they cannot reintroduce the former No11 striker.
      Doubts about his future at the club started to rise when he was missed off the provisional squad numbers for the new season.
      He hadn’t kicked a ball for the club since but was recently spotted training in a public park before knowing his fate.
      His dad and coach, Andrew Greenwood, instructed Greenwood on drills while holding his newborn baby.
      The player was still barred from Carrington Training Ground – belonging to Utd – while the club conducted their own investigation.
      All internal investigations have now been completed and handed to chief exec Arnold – who was tasked with making the final decision.
      The change of heart comes after The Sun revealed Arnold was ready to hand the footballer a second chance.
      An explanation as to why they had reached that conclusion was set to air next week.
      But SunSport understands that has since been shelved as the club rapidly rewrote their statements.
      It is unclear what Utd are now going to do with Greenwood, who is still being paid his £75,000 a week contract.
      Read More on The Sun
      There could be legal implications about cancelling it altogether because he still has two years remaining, wasn’t found guilty of anything and had all charged dropped.
      The club may look to offer him out on loan but so far there have been no firm offers from any club to take him. More

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      Man Utd boost with Dean Henderson set for bidding war as Premier League rival enter transfer race

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      CRYSTAL PALACE are making a shock move for Manchester United keeper Dean Henderson.Eagles have been told that the Old Trafford No 2 is available on a loan-to-buy basis and he is high on their list as Vicente Guaita looks set to leave Selhurst Park.
      Dean Henderson could be set for a move to Crystal PalaceCredit: Getty
      Vicente Guaita is set to leave Selhurst ParkCredit: Getty
      Palace would take Henderson if the deal is right — and they have a chance as Nottingham Forest back away from targeting the stopper who had last season’s loan at the City Ground cut short by injury.
      United wanted cash or a guarantee that Henderson, 26, would move to Forest permanently if he played enough games this season. But that became a hard deal to broker.
      Palace will also find it tough to sign Henderson but are trying to find a solution and have two loan spaces free.
      Roy Hodgson’s men are also looking at Southampton’s Alex McCarthy and have asked about Daniel Iversen at Leicester.
      READ MORE MAN UTD NEWS
      Henderson and current Palace No 1 Sam Johnstone are close pals and would be battling for the first-team jersey.
      Dane Iversen has been the subject of a Palace inquiry — along with Foxes striker Kelechi Iheanacho.
      SunSport revealed earlier this month that Man Utd expected a transfer to Nottingham Forest to go through.
      However, both the Red Devils and Steve Cooper’s men were concerned that undergoing a premature medical could see the goalkeeper aggravate his injury.
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      Nottingham Forest have also added Arsenal goalkeeper Matt Turner to the squad.
      Forest are currently above Man Utd in the table after beating Sheffield United 2-1, while Erik ten Hag’s side suffered an abject 2-0 loss at Tottenham. More

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      Man Utd ratings: Onana fires some gorgeous passes to expose Spurs but Mount is virtually anonymous

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      ERIK TEN HAG’s Manchester United were given a reality check by Tottenham just days after winning their season opener. The Red Devils – who eked out a narrow win over Wolves on Monday night – slumped to a 2-0 defeat at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday.
      Manchester United were brought back down to earth by TottenhamCredit: REX
      Pape Sarr put the Red Devils to the sword four minutes after the restartCredit: GETTY
      Lisandro Martinez scored a calamitous own goal in the 82nd minuteCredit: PA
      Ten Hag’s wasteful troops were punished for their yips in front of goal in the 49th minute by Pape Sarr – who was excellent from the outset.
      Marcus Rashford and Bruno Fernandes wasted golden opportunities to take the lead in the first half.
      An incredible own goal from Lisandro Martinez in the 82nd minute put the cherry on top of a very rotten cake for Ten Hag – who has plenty of food for thought this weekend.
      Defeat in North London saw United miss the opportunity to climb to the summit of the Premier League.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      Here, SunSport’s Tom Barclay rates and slates a less-than-impressive United side.
      Andre Onana – 7
      The former Inter Milan keeper was brought in, in part, for his footwork and he did fire some gorgeous passes that exposed Spurs’ high line.
      Made a good stop from Pape Sarr in the first half.
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      Andre Onana was United’s star performerCredit: GETTY
      Aaron Wan-Bissaka – 6
      Had his hands full with a revived Son Heung-min running at him, particularly as Spurs took control in the second half. Offered little going forward.
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      Raphael Varane – 5
      Could not keep up with Son’s pace during one attack in the first half but marshalled Richarlison well.
      Lisandro Martinez – 5
      It was the Argentine’s deflection from Dejan Kulusevski’s cross which saw the ball drop to Sarr for the opener. Then it all went wrong for Martinez as he deflected Davies’ flick into his own net to end the contest.
      Luke Shaw – 7
      Son would have doubled the lead after the break were it not for the England man’s last-gasp block. But Shaw was lucky not to score an own goal when Sarr’s first-half cross deflected off him against the post.
      Casemiro – 5
      In a week where Jamie Carragher questioned the sense of United signing the Brazilian on a long contract at his age, Casemiro was not at his best here. Although he would have had a goal were it not for Guglielmo Vicario’s stunning stop from his header.
      Casemiro went missing once again in the middle of the parkCredit: GETTY
      Antony – 6
      So unlucky not to score when he cracked the post within seconds of Sarr’s opener. The Brazilian had some decent moments before he was subbed off but still not enough to justify his astronomical fee.
      Bruno Fernandes – 6
      Missed a sitter at 0-0 when Shaw found him in the box scot-free as the United skipper headed high and wide. Became the latest player this season to go into the book for dissent as officials crack down on talking back.
      Mason Mount – 4
      It is obviously early days for the ex-Chelsea man who is trying to settle into Erik ten Hag’s side. But he was virtually anonymous for most of the game.
      Mason Mount was anonymous for the second game runingCredit: Rex
      Alejandro Garnacho – 5
      Was the beneficiary of Spurs’ high line a few times in the first half but could not capitalise on it. Was hooked on 66 minutes for Jadon Sancho.
      Marcus Rashford – 6
      It has been a quiet start to the season for the England man.
      He showed glimpses of his quality with a snapshot and a brilliant bit of skill to nutmeg Micky van de Ven in the first half, but overall was nullified.
      Threw his shin pad down in frustration after being subbed.
      United subs
      Diogo Dalot (for Wan-Bissaka) – 6
      Christian Eriksen (for Antony) – 6
      Jadon Sancho (for Garnacho) – 6
      Read More on The Sun
      Facundo Pellistri (for Mount) – 6
      Antony Martial (for Rashford) – 6 More

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      Man Utd ‘send scouts to watch Norwegian wonderkid, 16’ who’s a huge Red Devils fan and idolises Cristiano Ronaldo

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      MANCHESTER UNITED have reportedly sent scouts to watch a 16-year-old wonderkid who is hot property in Scandinavian football. Sverre Nypan plays his football for Norwegian first division side Rosenberg and became their youngest ever player when he made his debut at just 15-years-old.
      Manchester United have reportedly sent scouts to watch Sverre NypanCredit: Alamy
      The wonderkid is only 16-years-oldCredit: Alamy
      Man United have been monitoring the youngster for around a year and according to Norwegian outlet TV2, have sent scout out to watch him.
      Nypan has already made 19 senior appearances despite his age and has made a name for himself with two goals and four assists.
      The Red Devils will face competition for his signature though with top clubs from Germany, Belgium and Holland also said to be interested.
      However Erik ten Hag’s team may have the advantage with TV2 reporting that Nypan is a huge Man United fan who idolises Cristiano Ronaldo.
      READ MORE IN FOOTBALL
      And the central-midfielder’s playstyle has been likened to that of Frenkie De Jong, who has long been a target for United and worked under ten Hag at Ajax.
      United are looking for midfield reinforcements this summer with the Manchester giants pushing to complete a deal for Fiorentina man Sofyan Amrabat.
      It is unknown whether Man United’s interest in Nypan is concrete just yet, but he could certainly be an option for them in the future.
      If he does live up to the hype then he wouldn’t be the first youngster from the Norwegian division to go on to do big things.
      Most read in Football
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      Martin Odegaard left Stromsgodset in 2015 when he was just 16-years-old to join Real Madrid where he became their youngest ever player.
      Now 24, the attacking midfielder is captain of Mikel Arteta’s Arsenal team and has been nominated for the PFA Players’ Player of the Year after his exceptional campaign last season.
      Nypan has been likened to long-term Manchester United target Frenkie De JongCredit: Getty
      The 16-year-old could follow in the footsteps of fellow Norwegian Martin OdegaardCredit: Alamy More

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      Explosive Mason Greenwood update as Man Utd to DUMP star out of squad in dramatic U-turn after backlash from fans

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      AN explosive update in Mason Greenwood’s future can be revealed as Manchester United are set to DUMP the star out of the squad.The dramatic U-turn comes after uproar online saw the Premier League club face backlash from fans at the prospect of Greenwood, 21, making a comeback.
      The striker was suspended and hasn’t kicked a ball for the club since January 2022Credit: AFP
      Greenwood was previously spotted training in a park before his future was decided
      All charges against Greenwood were dropped in FebruaryCredit: AFP
      The striker was suspended and hasn’t kicked a ball for the club since January 2022 after he was arrested.
      United were ready to announce on Tuesday that he was returning to the fold.
      But since that news leaked there has been a backlash on social media which has rocked the club hierarchy – who now believe there can be no way back.
      But charges against him of attempted rape, assault and coercive control were dropped last February.
      READ MORE ON GREENWOOD
      The player was still barred from the Carrington Training Ground while United conducted their own investigation.
      That has been completed and all the evidence has been handed to Chief Executive Richard Arnold, who was tasked with the final decision.
      He was expected to bring Greenwood back with Arnold even filming an explanation as to why they have come to that decision.
      It was set to air next week.
      Most read in Football
      SunSport understands that has since been shelved as the club rapidly rewrite their statements.
      As news emerged that he would be returning television presenter Rachel Riley, 37, came out saying she would no longer support the club if that happened.
      In a social media post last Thursday she said: “I won’t be able to support United if Greenwood remains at the club.”
      There were also stories of some club staff threatening to strike.
      A group calling itself ‘Female Fans Against Greenwood’s Return’ came out with a strongly worded statement against his return.
      And a domestic abuse campaigner accused footballers and pundits of being silent over the issue.
      David Challen’s mother Sally was released from jail after her conviction for murdering her abusive husband was reduced to manslaughter.
      David tweeted: “Thus far no big male players/ex-players or pundits have spoken out about Greenwood.
      “All for talking a good game about inclusivity and #HerGameToo but when it comes to speaking out against male violence against women they are nowhere to be seen.”
      It is unclear what United are now going to do with the player still being paid his £75,000 a week contract as it still has two years left to run with the option of a further year.
      There will be legal implications about cancelling that as he has not been found guilty of anything after charges were dropped.
      The club may look to offer him out on loan but so far there have been no firm offers from any club to take him.
      As part of a statement released by the club last Wednesday they made it clear they had responsibilities to the player as well his alleged victim.
      It read: “Throughout this process, the welfare and perspective of the alleged victim has been central to the club’s inquiries, and we respect her right to lifelong anonymity.
      “We also have responsibilities to Mason as an employee, as a young person who has been with the club since the age of seven, and as a new father with a partner.”
      The U-turn comes after The Sun previously revealed Man Utd’s chief exec Arnold was ready to hand the footballer a second chance.
      But Natalie Burrell, founder of Manchester United’s Women’s Supporters’ Club, said his comeback would make Old Trafford “toxic” and full of booing”.
      Speaking to Newsnight she said his return would have destroyed the club.
      Read More on The Sun
      Despite Utd manager Erik ten Hag and the majority of the team suggesting they were open to the idea of bringing him back, the women’s team were understood to have reservations.
      And protests were staged at Old Trafford before United’s opening match of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday by fans not wanting him back. More

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      Mason Greenwood return could see Man Utd staff ‘resign’ as workers furious following meeting with club chiefs

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      MASON Greenwood’s possible return could see Manchester United staff “resign” amid “intense” meetings.Members of the club have reportedly blasted plans to bring the 21-year-old striker back onto the first team.
      The striker has not played for Manchester United since he was arrested in January last yearCredit: Getty
      Inside sources claimed talks with Man Utd chiefs became heated after some staff felt “ashamed” and threatened to “resign” over Greenwood’s potential return.
      Others are in the midst of planning a strike should the young striker be reintegrated, sources claimed.
      As reported by The Athletic, United’s chief executive Richard Arnold has hosted several discussions to plan the footballers comeback- which was previously set to be announced on August 4 before being scrapped.

      It is not known why the statement was dropped but speculation suggests sponsors, the fan’s advisory board, the women’s team and major stakeholders may have played a part.
      Manchester United Women’s team have reportedly raised concerns about the prospect of Greenwood returning to the training ground.
      Natalie Burrell, founder of Manchester United’s Women’s Supporters’ Club, said the footballer’s presence in the team would “destroy” the club.
      Meanwhile protests were staged at Old Trafford before United’s opening match of the season against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Monday.
      Most read in Football
      And, Countdown co-host Rachel Riley has also vowed to stop supporting United if they welcome back Greenwood.
      Rachel, 37, was responding to broadcast comments from another female United fan, named Em, saying she would “walk away from my club” if he returned.
      A final decision is due to be made over the weekend by Richard Arnold, however the announcement will be delayed until after the Lionesses World Cup final against Spain on Sunday.
      A source said: “This has been a long and difficult process for everyone involved, but it’s nearing the end.
      “The internal investigation is over and Mason is likely to be reinstated at Old Trafford. 
      “He’s made no secret of his desire to to get back to doing what he does best.
      “He’s already got the backing of the players and manager Erik ten Hag. He’s just waiting for the green light.”
      In a statement released on Wednesday, the club said it was “in the final stages” of announcing a decision.
      It said the “fact-finding phase” of the probe had been completed, but no final decision had yet been made.
      The striker has not played for Manchester United since he was arrested in January last year.
      He was later charged with attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behaviour, before the charges were dropped in February.
      Meanwhile, Utd conducted their own investigation into the allegations.
      However, since all charges were dropped, Greenwood has been desperate to rebuild his life and wants to resume his footie career at Old Trafford.
      Read More on The Sun
      The 21-year-old was suspended on full pay of £75,000 a week and has been training alone – following drills drawn up by United’s coaching staff.
      His last game was on January 22, 2022, in a Premier League clash against West Ham United, which United won 1-0.
      A final decision is expected to be made over the weekend by Richard ArnoldCredit: Getty More