Greenwood wears balaclava in first sighting since Man Utd forward's rape arrest

Manchester United forward Mason Greenwood has been pictured for the first time since he was arrested on suspicion of rape, assault, sexual assault and making threats to kill.

The 20-year-old was pictured wearing a balaclava as he drove his car around the centre of Altrincham, Greater Manchester with friends on Thursday. He remains on bail pending further investigation having been arrested on suspicion of rape and assault on 30 January and further arrested on suspicion of sexual assault and making threats to kill two days later.

Greater Manchester Police (GMP) have confirmed to Mirror Football that Greenwood's bail will expire on 30 April, at which point it could be extended. The player, who has one England cap, was suspended by United following his arrest and has not represented the club since a Premier League fixture against West Ham on 22 January.

Greenwood's first sighting since his arrest comes one day after the Old Trafford club insisted he remains suspended despite fans being able to access his player profile on their official website. The Red Devils are contractually obliged to pay his £75,000-per-week salary even though he is unable for selection "until further notice".

In the wake of his arrest, the United academy graduate was released from his contract with Nike without the sportswear giant paying him any compensation. EA Sports have also removed him from their popular FIFA video game, telling Mirror Football: "Mason Greenwood has been removed from active squads in FIFA 22 and has also been suspended from appearing in FIFA Ultimate Team (FUT) packs and Ultimate Draft."

Elsewhere, Cadbury - one of United's sponsors - have confirmed they will not use Greenwood as part of any marketing campaigns or products associated with the club, pending investigation. A statement read: "Cadbury does not condone violence in any form. Our Partnership is with the Club itself and not the individual players. However, while these allegations are being investigated, any marketing or products we create with Manchester United will not feature this player. We will continue to monitor the situation closely."

Greenwood was further arrested after police officers were granted additional time to question him. Having already suspended their player, the Red Devils released a second statement reaffirming their "strong condemnation" of violence which read: "We will not make any further comment until the facts have been established. Manchester United does not condone violence of any kind."

GMP have confirmed Greenwood's accuser has been offered "specialist support".

Greenwood's competitive debut for United came in 2019 and he has made a total of 129 senior appearances, scoring 35 goals, having initially joined the club aged six. In February last year, he signed a new long-term deal until the summer of 2025 which includes the option to extend for another season.

If you are suffering from domestic abuse, you can seek help and support by calling Refuge on their 24-hour hotline on 0808 2000 247 or visit nationaldahelpline.org.uk