They embarrassed us — Rachel Riley blasts Manchester United

TV presenter and Manchester United fan, Rachel Riley has blasted Manchester United for its handling of the Mason Greenwood saga that has left the club with negative publicity.

Rachel Riley voiced scathing criticism against the Old Trafford club, accusing the football club of engaging in “gaslighting” and “green lighting” abuse through their management of Mason Greenwood’s departure.

The young player’s exit was officially confirmed on August 21, concluding a six-month internal investigation into his conduct.

The club’s statement, issued following the decision, came after charges against Greenwood, including attempted rape and assault, were dropped earlier in February.

The key witness in the case, Harriet Robson, Greenwood’s girlfriend and the mother of his child, withdrew the charges.

Manchester United justified their stance by asserting that Greenwood “did not commit the offences in respect of which he was originally charged.”

The statement also claimed that the online material available did not present a comprehensive picture of the situation.

Chief executive Richard Arnold issued an open letter explaining the extensive process behind the decision.

He highlighted that while certain evidence remained inaccessible, the collected evidence led to the conclusion that Greenwood was not guilty of the alleged acts.

Arnold acknowledged that potential reintegration of Greenwood was among the considered outcomes, but his perspective evolved throughout the process.

In response, Greenwood released a statement in which he admitted to making mistakes and acknowledged his share of responsibility. He firmly maintained, however, that he did not engage in the actions he was accused of.

Rachel Riley, a dedicated Manchester United fan, took to social media to express her disapproval of the club’s stance.

She labeled the club’s statements as “gaslighting,” a term that describes manipulating individuals with false information to make them doubt the truth.

Additionally, Riley accused the club of “green lighting” abuse on social media, suggesting that the club’s public statements could embolden abusive behavior.

She expressed concern that the club’s actions could discourage victims from coming forward with allegations, implying that reporting abuse might be more trouble than it’s worth.

Rachel Riley criticized the core question that Manchester United faced in this situation.

She argued that the issue at hand wasn’t about Greenwood’s legal guilt or innocence, but rather whether he was suitable to represent the club as a role model for aspiring football fans.

Riley’s disappointment was palpable as she questioned the club’s contribution to a culture that perpetuates such dynamics.

Having previously stated that she would cease supporting the club if Greenwood remained, Rachel Riley maintained her stance and reiterated her disillusionment with Manchester United.

She emphasized that she had been a loyal supporter for a long time, even passing down her allegiance to her daughters. However, she expressed her discontent over the club’s handling of the situation, describing it as “appalling.”