Mason Greenwood said he would not return to Manchester United training until next season

Mason Greenwood has been told he will not return to training at Manchester United until next season at the earliest as the club’s international investigation into his rape arrest is unlikely to be completed before the summer.

The 21-year-old striker has been suspended by United since January 2022 when allegations of attempted rape and assault first surfaced, leading to his arrest and charges, but all charges were dropped by Greater Manchester Police last month.

Greenwood is said to have had lengthy discussions with United officials in recent weeks, with the player emphasizing his desire to return as soon as possible and stressing his commitment to staying at Old Trafford, where he is under contract until 2025.

However, the club insist he will not be pressured into making a hasty decision and continue to exercise due diligence into the circumstances of his arrest and conduct off the pitch.

United are grappling with a difficult ethical, human, commercial and financial dilemma over Greenwood, while also conceding that making a controversial decision over the next two months could jeopardize their push for Champions League qualifying and FA Cup campaigns and could interfere in the Europa League.

Mason Greenwood has been told he will not return to Manchester United training until next season at the earliest as the club continue their investigation

United boss Erik ten Hag has declined to comment further on Greenwood’s future at the club

The club are understood to be divided on the issue, with football department staff arguing he should be given a second chance, but commercial executives are more cautious amid concerns about the potential damage to United’s reputation.

Sponsors Nike, EA Sports and Cadbury dropped Greenwood after the allegations first surfaced.

His jersey is no longer for sale, although his number 11 has not been reassigned.

Erik Ten Hag has scrupulously avoided talking about Greenwood’s future.

He has insisted it is a problem for the club’s hierarchy, although the Dutchman has spoken to the player since the charges were dropped last month.

The former England Under-21 forward has continued to receive his £70,000-week salary since his suspension.

The remaining value of his contract is estimated at £8.1million, which the club may have to pay back if they sack him at the end of the season.

United declined to comment.

Greenwood will appear in court in November 2022 on the now-dropped charges of attempted rape, assault, and controlling and coercive behavior