Manchester United ahead Mason Greenwood has had all legal fees towards him dropped, police and prosecutors mentioned on Thursday.
Greenwood, who was suspended by United in January 2022 when accusations towards him surfaced on social media, was charged with tried rape, controlling behaviour and assault final October.
“A choice has been made to discontinue prosecution in accordance with the Code for Crown Prosecutors,” the Crown Prosecution Service mentioned in a press release naming Greenwood.
United didn’t instantly reply to a request for remark.
Neither Greenwood nor his representatives have commented at any stage on the allegations towards him.
A CPS spokesperson mentioned: “A mix of the withdrawal of key witnesses and new materials that got here to mild meant there was not a practical prospect of conviction.”
The CPS added that it inspired “any potential victims to come back ahead and report back to police.”
Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, Better Manchester Police’s Head of Public Safety, mentioned: “The investigation workforce has remained in common contact with the authorized workforce, offering any updates of word, and so perceive the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this resolution has not been taken evenly.
“Regardless of the media and public’s curiosity on this case, we have now determined to not touch upon it in any additional element.
“I’d, nevertheless, like to make use of this chance to reiterate GMP’s dedication to investigating allegations of violence towards girls and women and supporting these affected, no matter their circumstances, all through what is usually a exhausting and upsetting time for them.”
Greenwood got here by means of United’s youth academy and made his full debut in 2019 aged 17. He was a key member of the primary workforce final season, making 18 Premier League appearances, the final of which was on Jan. 22 towards West Ham United, earlier than being suspended.
He made one look for England in September 2020.
In February 2022 Nike ended its sponsorship with Greenwood following the accusations, whereas he was additionally faraway from some variations of the FIFA 22 online game.