Greenwood’s Controversial Return Confirmed by United Owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe Ahead of New Season
In a major development at Old Trafford, Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has confirmed plans to bring Mason Greenwood back into the first-team setup, nearly three years after his last appearance for the club. The 24-year-old forward is set to return under a new regime that views his talent as too valuable to discard.
Ratcliffe, whose INEOS group finalized their takeover in February 2025, made the announcement on June 29, stating: “I’ve watched him play—he’s an incredible talent. It would be a real shame to let that go to waste.” His comments mark a sharp shift from previous club leadership, which had distanced itself from Greenwood due to the backlash surrounding his legal case.
Greenwood, a product of United’s youth academy, was sidelined in January 2022 after being arrested on charges including rape and assault. While those charges were dropped in early 2023, United opted to send him on loan—first to Getafe, then to Marseille—where he rebuilt his form with 10 goals and 6 assists in Ligue 1 last season.
Despite showcasing his creativity and technical skill with 78 successful dribbles and 48 key passes, the club’s earlier administration considered a return unfeasible amid ongoing public scrutiny. Now, under Ratcliffe’s direction, United is moving forward with reintegrating Greenwood, calling it a decision based on “extraordinary ability,” according to a club statement.
New manager Ruben Amorim, initially hesitant, has reportedly approved the move, believing Greenwood’s versatility fits well in his 3-4-2-1 tactical setup. He is expected to join forces in the attacking line with Harry Kane—signed for £122 million—and Bryan Mbeumo, who arrived for £63 million.
The forward’s return is being facilitated by a nominal recall fee from Marseille, with a three-year contract already agreed. His comeback also follows the £50 million sale of Alejandro Garnacho to Arsenal, a move that helped make space in the squad.
Fan reaction has been sharply divided. On social media, supporters like @RedDevilsForever have embraced the decision: “Greenwood’s back? Our academy star’s getting his redemption!” Meanwhile, others, including @MUFCTruth, have voiced serious concerns: “Ratcliffe’s ignoring the fans who don’t want this.”
This decision is the latest in a summer of sweeping changes for United, who have spent over £295 million on reinforcements including Kane, Mbeumo, and Matheus Cunha. Some of that spending was offset by loaning Marcus Rashford to Aston Villa.
Greenwood’s return—expected to be officially completed following the Club World Cup—adds firepower to Amorim’s squad, but also revives debate over morality, image, and second chances in elite sport. For Ratcliffe, it’s a calculated risk aimed at fueling United’s resurgence. Whether it unites or further divides the fan base remains to be seen.
