Nike suspends Mason Greenwood’s sponsorship deal after being ‘deeply concerned’ by rape & GBH arrest
NIKE have suspended Mason Greenwood's lucrative sponsorship deal after the company said they are “deeply concerned” by his abuse allegations.
The Manchester United star, 20, spent the night in a police cell after cops swooped over rape and GBH claims which came to light on Sunday morning.
Sportswear giant Nike, which provides the striker's boots, said they are worried by the “disturbing" accusations against him.
The brand said in a statement: "We have suspended our relationship with Mason Greenwood.
"We are deeply concerned by the disturbing allegations and will continue to closely monitor the situation."
Greenwood has worn Nike boots since breaking into United’s first team in 2019.
Meanwhile, Manchester United took down all Mason Greenwood merch from their website - with fans wanting refunds for items already bought.
And Man U's official partner Cadbury said Greenwood won't appear on any of their marketing products, reports.
And sponsor TeamViewer announced they are "closely monitoring developments".
Greenwood has been suspended indefinitely by his club after being arrested on suspicion of rape and GBH following a series of allegations posted online.
Crime scene investigators from Greater Manchester Police were seen parked outside the footballer’s house in Bowdon, Greater Manchester, on Sunday afternoon.
Security staff, thought to have been provided by his club, were present at a second home he owns nearby and they confirmed his parents were inside.
The Premier League club initially said it did “not condone violence of any kind" and later suspended the £75,000-a-week star as a police probe was launched.
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A spokesman for the club said: “Mason Greenwood will not return to training or play matches until further notice.”
Last night the Manchester United Supporters Trust tweeted: “The club has now confirmed that Mason Greenwood will not return to training or play matches until further notice. MUST fully support the decision of the club in this regard."
The images and allegations were reportedly visible on the woman's Instagram on Sunday morning, but have since been deleted.
A spokesman for Greater Manchester Police said: "Police were made aware of online social media images and videos posted by a woman reporting incidents of physical violence.
"An investigation was launched and following enquiries we can confirm a man in his 20s has since been arrested on suspicion of rape and assault.
"He remains in custody for questioning. Enquiries are ongoing."
Nazir Afzal, former Chief Crown Prosecutor, tweeted on Sunday: “These allegations need to be investigated quickly.”
Greenwood joined Manchester United at the age of six and progressed through the academy ranks.
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He started playing for the first team in 2019, aged 17, and has made 129 appearances fore the Red Devils.
Greenwood also represented England several times as an under-17 and under-21 before being named in the England senior squad in August 2020.
