MANCHESTER − Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has been further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill as police were again granted more time to question the 20-year-old.
The player was first arrested on Sunday after Greater Manchester Police were made aware of “online social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence”.
Detectives were given additional time on Monday to question the player, whom they have not formally named as the suspect.
The force said in a statement yesterday: “Detectives have been granted further additional time to speak to a man in his 20s, who was arrested on suspicion of rape and assault of a woman.
“The suspect was detained in custody on Sunday afternoon after we became aware of online social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence.
“He continues to be questioned after magistrates authorised an extension until today.
“Following enquiries so far, he has since been further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and threats to kill.”
Within hours of the allegations appearing on Sunday, Greenwood − regarded as one of the rising stars of English football − was suspended from playing or training with United until further notice.
The posts have since been deleted from the social media page.
Complainants of sexual offences must not be identified under English law and their anonymity is protected for life.
United issued a new statement following the latest developments yesterday.
“Manchester United reiterates its strong condemnation of violence of any kind,” the Premier League club said.
“As previously communicated, Mason Greenwood will not train with, or play for, the club until further notice.”
Sportswear giant Nike said it had suspended its deal with the player and video game developer EA Sports said he had been removed from active squads in FIFA 22.
Greenwood made his United debut in 2019 and has since made 129 appearances for the club − scoring 35 goals − after coming up through the youth ranks.
He signed a new deal in February 2021 − keeping him at Old Trafford until at least 2025
Greenwood made his England debut against Iceland in September 2020 but he and Manchester City midfielder Phil Foden were sent home after a breach of the team’s coronavirus guidelines.
He has yet to win another cap for the Three Lions. – AFP, February 2, 2022
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