Trigger warning: this article contains references to abuse and sexual assault.

Charges of attempted rape and assault against the Manchester United footballer Mason Greenwood has been dropped. 

Greenwood was originally arrested in January 2022 on suspicion of rape and assault, before being further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and making threats to kill. He was later released on bail.

Now, the charges will not go ahead following the withdrawal of “key witnesses”.

The Crown Prosecution Service said the charges were dropped following the withdrawal of key witnesses. “We have a duty to keep cases under continuous review,” they said. “In this case 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.

“We have explained our decision to all parties. We would always encourage any potential victims to come forward and report to police and we will prosecute wherever our legal test is met.”

Detective Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr added: “I would like to use this opportunity to reiterate the force’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a hard and upsetting time for them.”

Greenwood has not played or trained with Manchester United since January, when allegations against him first came to light.

Nike, who was sponsoring Greenwood at the time, also ended its deal with him, and Electronic Arts removed him from active squads on its Fifa 22 game. 

The 24-hour National Domestic Abuse helpline can be contacted on 0808 2000 247 and further support can be accessed online via their website. 

Image: Getty