My stay has become a distraction – Manchester United player speaks on club’s decision

Manchester United young striker, Mason Greenwood has reacted to the club’s decision to sell him.

United in a lengthy statement on Monday announced that its had mutually agreed with Greenwood for the forward to leave Old Trafford after he faced abuse allegations.

The England international forward has been suspended by the club since January 30, 2022, over allegations relating to a young woman after images and videos were posted online, although a criminal case was discontinued.

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Prosecutors said in February they were dropping charges, including attempted rape and sexual assault, against Greenwood, after the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence coming to light.

Reacting to the club decision in a long statement, the 21-year-old said, “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”.

The player maintained his innocence, stressing that, “I did not do the things I was accused of”.

The statement partly reads: “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 in any relationship 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 in my relationship, 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.”