Ralf Rangnick Reveals Connection Between Lingard’s Failed Transfer and Mason Greenwood Arrest

• Ralf Rangnick opened up about the effect Mason Greenwood’s arrest had on the team ahead of their return to training
• The gaffer admitted Greenwood’s arrest had a hand in Jesse Lingard’s botched move away from Old Trafford in January
• Lingard was among those tipped to leave United, at least on loan, alongside Donny Van de Beek, with the Dutchman joining Everton in a six-month deal

Manchester United boss Ralf Rangnick has shed more light on why Jesse Lingard was blocked from leaving the club in the January transfer window.

Rangnick, in a press conference on Thursday, February 3, said Mason Greenwood’s arrest played a factor in the club’s decision to ultimately keep Lingard.

Greenwood, who was recently released on bail, was recently arrested and quizzed by police on suspicion of a number of felonies including assault and threats to kill.

His arrest, which made worldwide headlines, came at a time when United were on the verge of allowing Lingard to leave on loan, with Newcastle his most likely destination.

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“So it was two things one thing was obviously that we had the problem with Mason Greenwood and being without a player for the time being that has played regularly in the last couple of weeks,” Rangnick explained as quoted by The Sun.

He also added that United did not reach an agreement with any club by the time the transfer window was closing.

State of Man United after Greenwood arrest

In the same press conference, Rangnick also admitted that Manchester United players inevitably talked about their team mate Greenwood’s arrest when they returned to training this week.

“Obviously it was a topic within the team but they're human beings and Mason was part of the group before we had our break.” The gaffer went on.

Following the failed move away from Manchester United, Lingard requested some days off to “clear his mind”.

The 28-year old was almost certain he as leaving in January and is reportedly dejected by the fact that that his potential transfer was quelled.

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Aubameyang slams Arteta in Barcelona interview

Elsewhere, Sports Brief reported of how Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang hinted at a disconnect between him and Mikel Arteta in the build-up to his exit from Arsenal.

During his unveiling at the Catalan club, the 2015 African Player of the Year attacked Arteta but quickly cautioned himself not to spill more than necessary.

"For my part, I never wanted to do anything wrong. My problem was only with Arteta. I can't say much more, I wasn't happy," he revealed.