Mason Greenwood shares first Instagram post in over a year to announce birth of child

Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood has announced the birth of his child in a rare post on Instagram.

It is the first time Greenwood has posted an update on his Instagram profile since his arrest in January, 2022.

Greater Manchester Police announced on February 2 of this year that the 21-year-old no longer faces criminal proceedings.

Greenwood had been charged with attempted rape, engaging in controlling and coercive behaviour and assault.

But all charges against him were dropped after key witnesses withdrew their involvement in the case and new material came to light during the police investigation.

Greenwood remains suspended by United while the club continues an internal investigation into his behaviour before making a final decision over his future.

He has not trained with the first team or been available to play since he was first arrested.

Greenwood took to Instagram to publish a shared post with his partner announcing the birth of their child.

The image, which showed all three holding hands, was posted to Greenwood's profile, along with the caption: "11.07.23", followed by a love-heart emoji.

Greenwood was not included in United's 26-man squad for their first pre-season friendly against Leeds in Oslo, Norway on Wednesday.

He is currently training away from the club to maintain his fitness levels - but was spotted with United teammate Anthony Elanga earlier this week amid the ongoing speculation over his future.

A final decision over his future expected to be made before the start of the new season.

Reports last week claimed that United are likely to loan Greenwood out this season, with Italian side Atalanta in talks to take the forward on a temporary deal.

Greenwood is said to have already rented out his Cheshire home in anticipation of a move.

However, the Daily Mail claim that United sources say that talk of him being sent out on loan to Italy is 'highly speculative' given that his future at United is still undecided.

Greenwood is contracted to United until 2025, with the option of an additional year.

While a decision over Greenwood's future will be made by the club, United boss Erik ten Hag is reportedly reluctant to sell the striker and has refused to rule out the player returning to the squad at some point.

In a recent interview with The Times, Ten Hag said that Greenwood had "showed in the past that he is capable of doing that [centre forward role]" but said a decision over his future would be made by others.