Mason Greenwood will no longer stand trial for an alleged attempted rape and assault on a woman, according to prosecutors, after key witnesses withdrew and new evidence was discovered.

Manchester United had suspended the 21-year-old since the allegations surfaced in January 2022. He was later charged with one count of attempted rape, one count of assault, and engaging in controlling and coercive behavior on multiple occasions, and was scheduled to stand trial in November of this year.

Greenwood was also re-arrested in October for violating his bail conditions.

The Crown Prosecution Service, on the other hand, stated this afternoon that “the withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light meant there was no longer a realistic prospect of conviction.”

“In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case,” the CPS added. We have informed all parties of our decision. We would always encourage potential victims to come forward and report to police, and we will prosecute where our legal standard is met.”

United has yet to respond to the news. He is still under contract at Old Trafford until the summer of 2025 and is thought to be earning £75,000 per week.

Following Greenwood’s initial arrest, several of his sponsors, including Nike, canceled their contracts with the England international striker. In addition, he was removed from the FIFA computer game and the Football Manager series.

United discontinued all merchandise bearing his name and image, and several teammates unfollowed him on social media.

Chief Superintendent Michaela Kerr, Greater Manchester Police’s head of public protection, said in a separate statement: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of the investigation.”