Many key players returned to training ahead of the clash against rivals Leeds in Oslo. Academy graduate Mason Greenwood was not part of the training team and with questions over his future it may be a key clue as to where he may be next season.
Since being suspended on the 30th of January 2022 Greenwood has not been training with the United squad. With the serious accusations and footage that have been made public it is thought that putting Mason into the squad this year would create mass controversy.
It is in United’s interest to protect both the fanbase and the player which will have an influencing factor in the decision of where Greenwood plays this season.
Greenwood out of training
Key United players, other than those who played in end of season internationals, returned to Carrington ahead to the 23/24 preseason. Varane, Antony, Martinez and new signing Mount were some of the bigger names that trained yesterday.
Mason Greenwood was absent. It is believed that in a footballing sense Ten Hag likes the player however it is unknown if United feel they can keep him after the controversy of last year.
Greenwood missing training shows the club’s intentions as if there was no indication of a sale or a loan then he would be back at training.
It is reported that many senior members at United and some of players from their women’s team would be uncomfortable and disagree with a Mason Greenwood return.
What are United’s options with Greenwood
It would seem to be a difficult return to United this season. The most likely move for United is thought to be a loan move with many Italian clubs interested. Earlier this week reports of a loan move to Roma looked to be an option however since the talk has died down.
Interestingly Man United’s interest in Rasmus Hojlund may open up an opportunity for Mason Greenwood after Italian reports seem to claim that there may be an option to include a Mason Greenwood loan to Atalanta in negotiations to sign the young Danish prospect.
It is believed that Greenwood is happy to be loaned out of United, spending a year away where United can then investigate the possibility of keeping him with time passing between his allegations.
A transfer could still be a possibility however is thought to be less likely than a loan move away from Old Trafford.
Turkish and Italian teams seem to be the ones most interested in signing the talent either on a permanent or just for a season.
Keeping Greenwood now seems extremely unlikely with the player missing from training. United know that the more time that passes before their decision to keep or sell Greenwood the easier it will be.
His contract runs out in 2025 so expect a loan out this season with a decision on whether to keep the player during the summer of 2024.
