Gary Neville has taken issue with Manchester United’s approach to their probe into Mason Greenwood’s behaviour, describing it as “pretty horrible”.
On Monday, the Red Devils announced that the 21-year-old would be departing the club, following an intensive half-year internal review.
While United have chosen not to terminate Greenwood’s contract, which has another two years on it, they are now contemplating whether to pursue an outright sale or potentially loan him out.
Speaking with Sky Sport on Monday Night, Neville said:
“It was clear from day one that he wouldn’t play for Manchester United again,”
“The process in getting there has been pretty horrible. When you have significant situations, and difficult situations like this, it requires strong authoritative leadership. And that comes from the very top. Manchester United don’t have that.”
Manchester United’s move to part ways with Greenwood came after intense scrutiny and criticism from fans, charitable organisations, MPs, and more, regarding a potential plan to reintegrate him into the first-team since his suspension in January 2022.
Back then, he faced allegations of attempted rape and assault, leading to formal charges by the Greater Manchester Police in October of the same year. However, the case was later dismissed as the Crown Prosecution Service received new evidence, and due to the withdrawal of crucial witnesses, stated that a conviction was no longer a viable outcome.
Throughout the summer, manager Erik ten Hag has refrained from commenting on Greenwood’s situation, even as he was repeatedly questioned owing to the extended duration of United’s internal investigation.
Given United’s latest stance, several clubs have perked up, viewing Greenwood as a potential recruit. Insider sources claim that Roma, under the helm of Jose Mourinho, is among a few Serie A clubs weighing their options. There’s also a buzz of interest from teams in Germany, Spain, Turkey, and the Saudi Pro League.
