Mason Greenwood’s remarkable resurgence at Getafe has earned him a nomination for the La Liga Team of the Season, prompting Manchester United to face a pivotal decision regarding his future amid reported transfer deliberations.
In January 2022, United suspended the then-22-year-old forward following allegations of attempted rape, assault, and coercive and controlling behavior, all of which he vehemently denied. Despite being arrested and charged, Greenwood was exonerated in February 2023 when the UK’s Crown Prosecution Service dropped the charges due to the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence that diminished the likelihood of a conviction.
Following a thorough six-month investigation, former chief executive Richard Arnold purportedly intended to facilitate Greenwood’s reintegration last summer, with support from then-manager Erik ten Hag and football director John Murtough. However, widespread internal and external criticism prompted a dramatic reversal, leading to Greenwood’s last-minute move to Spain.
Greenwood has since reignited his career at Getafe, tallying 10 goals and six assists in 31 appearances across all competitions. His impressive performances earned him a nomination for the La Liga Team of the Season, alongside luminaries such as Antonio Rudiger, Jude Bellingham, and Vinicius Junior. Among the nominees is also Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, a former target under Ten Hag’s tenure, and ex-Manchester United defender Daley Blind, who has excelled at Girona.
Greenwood’s nomination serves to enhance his market value ahead of the summer transfer window, during which United reportedly aim to offload several players to bolster a constrained budget at the onset of the Sir Jim Ratcliffe era. Allegedly, United can afford a net spend of £100 million before factoring in sales, positioning Greenwood as one of the assets potentially available for transfer.
Reports indicate that United seek a transfer fee ranging from £30 million to £40 million to part ways with Greenwood this summer. Nevertheless, the club retains the option to extend his contract by an additional year until 2026, affording them leverage in negotiations. Consequently, if prospective suitors from Spain, Italy, and beyond fail to meet United’s valuation, Greenwood could potentially return to Manchester next season.
Since assuming co-ownership of United in February, Sir Jim Ratcliffe has emphasized the need for a “fresh” assessment of Greenwood’s future. With the decision-making process nearing its culmination, the club faces a crucial juncture in determining the trajectory of Greenwood’s career.
