Manchester United has faced intense criticism for profiting from the sale of Mason Greenwood, with many calling on the club to donate the earnings to women’s charities.
The 22-year-old forward completed a £30million move to Marseille this week, bringing an end to his tumultuous spell at Old Trafford. Greenwood spent last season on loan with Getafe in LaLiga, having not played for United since his arrest in January 2022.
Greenwood was charged with attempted rape, assault occasioning bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behavior nine months later. However, the charges were dropped in February 2023 when key witnesses withdrew. The player has consistently denied any wrongdoing.
Mason Greenwood completed a £30million move from Man United to Marseille this week
The move has sparked controversy, with Marseille fans and the city’s mayor, Benoit Payan, expressing their opposition to the transfer. Payan went as far as to label Greenwood “a disgrace.”
Domestic abuse campaigner David Challen has also spoken out against the move, arguing that United should have released Greenwood and prioritized women’s charities over their financial interests.
“Manchester United is a massive global sports club that rakes in hundreds of millions a year,” Challen said. “They could have easily released him, but instead, they chose to retain him for their own financial needs, prioritizing their interests above those of women.”
Challen added that the club’s decision not to engage with women’s charities or donate to them is “woeful,” particularly given the significant funding needed for these services.
Greenwood’s move to Marseille has drawn protests from fans and the mayor of Marseille
Greenwood has insisted that he has put the past behind him and is focused on his future with Marseille and his partner and their daughter.
The forward could make his debut for Marseille as early as Sunday in a friendly against Nimes. He may also feature in a pre-season match against Sunderland at Valley Parade in his hometown of Bradford on August 3.
Greenwood made 129 appearances for United, scoring 35 goals during his time at the club.