Erik ten Hag says he is unable to comment on Mason Greenwood's future as a Manchester United player.
The club confirmed on Thursday that they will hold their own investigation into the 21-year-old striker, who learned that all charges against him had been dropped. It was confirmed on Thursday afternoon that Greenwood would not stand trial for an attempted rape and alleged assault after prosecutors said that “key witnesses” were no longer co-operating with their investigation and the charges were dropped.
Greenwood has been suspended with pay by United since being arrested in January 2022, when the allegations first surfaced. The club are now conducting an internal inquiry during which he will not return to training.
And speaking at his press conference ahead of Saturday’s Premier League game against Crystal Palace, head coach Ten Hag said: "In this moment, I can't give comment about the process. I can't say anything about it. I refer to the statement of the club and at this moment I can't add anything."
Asked if Greenwood's situation had any impact on the squad's preparation for the Palace match, Ten Hag added: "We have always to focus on the game, no matter what. It is our job."
The once-capped England player is under contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2025 and his deal is worth about £4m per season.
In a short statement released on Thursday evening the club said: "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."
Following his initial arrest, several of Greenwood's sponsors, including Nike, cancelled their deals with the England international striker. He was also removed from the FIFA computer game and Football Manager series.
United stopped selling all merchandise with his name and face on it and a number of team-mates unfollowed him on social media.
Greenwood made his senior debut for United in March 2019 and he has made a total of 129 appearances for the club, scoring 35 goals. He last played for the club on January 22 of last year, in a Premier League game against West Ham .
A CPS statement published at lunchtime on Thursday read: “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.”
Greenwood said in a statement released on his behalf: "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."
