Manchester United Under Pressure to Donate Mason Greenwood’s Transfer Fee to Domestic Abuse Charities
Manchester United is facing mounting pressure to donate any potential transfer fee received for Mason Greenwood to domestic abuse charities. The 21-year-old forward has attracted significant interest from clubs in Europe and the Middle East after United announced their decision to let him rebuild his career elsewhere.
Greenwood, who was previously highly valued at over £100 million before his arrest for attempted rape in January last year, is regarded as one of England’s brightest young talents. Although charges were dropped in February and his contract with United still remains intact until 2025, the club now seeks an initial loan agreement with a view to a permanent move for the player.
Following the announcement, survivors of domestic abuse and advocacy groups have urged United to ensure that no club profits from Greenwood’s situation. Natalie Curtis, a survivor who works with Women’s Aid, expressed her belief that if a transfer fee does materialize, it should be donated to domestic abuse charities. Meanwhile, Gerry Sutcliffe, a former prisons minister, suggested that any initial fee should be given to domestic violence charities as well.
Manchester United has reportedly received interest from other clubs since their announcement regarding Greenwood. While the forward is still developing at the age of 21, he is likely to consider a move to a competitive top-tier league in Europe. It has been emphasized, however, that Greenwood will not end up at a rival Premier League club.
Greenwood’s suspension from the team occurred 18 months ago following his arrest on charges of attempted rape, controlling and coercive behavior, and assault. The charges were dropped earlier this year due to the withdrawal of key witnesses. In light of recent events, Jamie Klingler, co-founder of Reclaim These Streets, criticized United’s handling of the case, suggesting that any fee donated to charity would be merely performative.
Caroline Nokes, a senior Tory MP who chairs the women and equalities committee, refrained from commenting on whether United should surrender any potential transfer fee. However, she commended the club for making the decision to let Greenwood leave, emphasizing the importance of sending a message that violence against women is never acceptable.
Jordan Guard, founder of the Women’s Sports Alliance, proposed that if another club were to sign Greenwood, the transfer fee paid to United should be large and subsequently invested into their women’s team. Guard also pointed out that Greenwood himself should take personal responsibility and contribute to domestic abuse charities.
Greenwood released a statement on Monday acknowledging his mistakes in his past relationship and expressing his commitment to setting a positive example as a professional footballer and a responsible father.
As pressure mounts on Manchester United to handle the situation in a way that supports victims of domestic abuse, it remains to be seen how the club will respond and whether they will donate any transfer fee received to domestic abuse charities.
