Manchester United striker Mason Greenwood has tried to drop the rape and assault charges against him as the Red Devils ‘will now conduct their own process’ ahead of next steps.

Mason Greenwood has had his charges of attempted rape, assault and controlling and coercive behavior against him dropped.

The 21-year-old Manchester United striker was first arrested in January 2022 over the allegations, after disturbing images and videos were uploaded by a woman.

He was later charged by Greater Manchester Police, with a provisional trial date set for November 2023.

He had faced one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behavior and one count of assault causing actual bodily harm, all against the same plaintiff.

However, the Crown Prosecution Service announced on Thursday that it had dropped all charges against Greenwood after a key witness withdrew his involvement.

A CPS spokesperson said: “We have a duty to keep the cases under continuous review.

“In this case, the combination of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material being uncovered meant that there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction. In these circumstances, we have a duty to stop the case.

“We have explained our decision to all parties.

“We always encourage all potential victims to come forward and report to the police and we will prosecute whenever our legal test is met.”

Greater Manchester Police said it was “fair” to publicly announce that Greenwood would no longer face criminal charges.

Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, GMP’s public protection officer, said: “Given the extensive media coverage of this case, it is only fitting that we share the news that the 21-year-old man, who was arrested and charged in connection with an investigation opened in January 2022, is no longer the subject of criminal proceedings in this regard.

“The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing all important updates, and thus understands the rationale for discontinuing the prosecution at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.

“Despite the media and public interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in more detail.

“I would, however, like to take this opportunity to reiterate GMP’s commitment to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls and to supporting those affected, regardless of their circumstances, throughout what can be a difficult and upsetting time for them.

“An ever-increasing number of officers are receiving specialized training and the force is more consistently using tools, available through the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.

“If you think you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case discourage you from seeking help.”

In a statement, Man United said: “Manchester United take note of the Crown Prosecution Service’s decision that all charges against Mason Greenwood have been dropped.

“The club will now conduct its own process before determining the next steps. We will not comment further until this process is complete. »

Greenwood last played for Manchester United over a year ago in January 2022 when the Red Devils beat West Ham 1-0.

He was arrested at the end of this month after images and videos emerged on social media posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical abuse.

Man United suspended Greenwood over the allegations, while he was also removed from FIFA 22 and Football Manager, and Nike terminated his sponsorship deal.

Greenwood made 129 total appearances for United, scoring 35 goals and earning a cap for England.

United have been approached for comment.