Mason Greenwood’s arrest will not detract from Manchester United’s preparations for their FA Cup match against Middlesbrough, according to manager Ralf Ragnick.
After police were made aware of claims made by his girlfriend on social media, the 20-year-old was arrested on Sunday, January 30 on suspicion of rape and assault, then again on Tuesday, February 1 on suspicion of threats to kill and sexual assault.
He was granted bail awaiting further investigation on Wednesday, and Manchester United has stated that he will not be participating in any training sessions or matches anytime soon.
Ralf Ragnick, talking to the media for the first time since Greenwood’s arrest ahead of their FA Cup fourth round clash against Middlesbrough on February 4, said Greenwood’s detention had had no impact on their training plans.
He said: “We had a good normal week of training with five training sessions including today’s training.
“Obviously it was a topic within the team, but they’re all human beings and Mason was part of the group before we had our break.
“It was a good week of training, we could train under normal circumstances and we are looking forward to the game, it will not affect us”
On Friday, the club underlined that Greenwood will not be participating in training or games until further notice.
the club said, “Manchester United reiterates its strong condemnation of violence of any kind. As previously communicated, Mason Greenwood will not train with, or play for, the club until further notice.”