Manchester United 'considering U-turn' on Mason Greenwood decision as latest 'update' given

Manchester United are 'considering a U-turn' on their plans to reinstate Mason Greenwood to the squad, a report has claimed.

The Athletic reported on Wednesday that chief executive Richard Arnold had informed members of the club's executive leadership that United planned to bring Greenwood back.

It is claimed that Arnold planned to record a video explaining the decision, which would be shared with club staff and the public.

In addition, Greenwood would not make appearances for the Manchester United Foundation in the short or medium-term as part of the reported plans.

When approached for further comment on The Athletic's initial report by SPORTbible, United referred back to their club statement on the matter, published on Wednesday, which reads: "The fact-finding phase of our investigation is now complete, and we are in the final stages of making a decision on Mason's future.

"Contrary to media speculation, that decision has not yet been made, and is currently the subject of intensive internal deliberation. Responsibility ultimately rests with the Chief Executive Officer."

A further report by The Athletic published on Friday - for which United are yet to answer SPORTbible's request for comment - claimed that, via anonymous club sources, senior United executives had held several 'intense' meetings with staff.

It is alleged that some staff members 'discussed resigning' if United continued with their reported plan to bring Greenwood back, while some felt 'ashamed' at the club's decision.

Now, a new report has given a further update on the club's position.

Man Utd 'considering U-turn on Mason Greenwood decision'

According to the Manchester Evening News, United are 'considering a U-turn' on bringing Greenwood back to the first team squad.

Greenwood has not played for United since January 2022, when he was suspended following his arrest on suspicion of rape and assault. He was charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm in October.

The charges were subsequently discontinued in February, with the CPS stating that 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'.

Since then, United have been undergoing their own internal investigation into Greenwood's behaviour, and he remains suspended by the club.

The MEN claims that the backlash received following reports of United's plan for Greenwood's return has caused the club to reassess their position on whether he will be reinstated to the squad.

When contacted by the same outlet, United declined to comment.

SPORTbible has also contacted Manchester United for comment.