All the charges brought against Mason Greenwood has been dropped following the withdrawal of key witnesses and the emergence of material evidence.
Greater Manchester Police stated that the decision has “not been taken lightly” and it was “only fair” to publicise the latest development given the “significant media coverage of this case”.
The Manchester United striker was due to stand trial this year.
The 21-year-old striker faced one count of attempted rape, one count of controlling and coercive behaviour, and one count of assault occasioning actual bodily harm.
All three charges are connected to the same woman.
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said it had a “duty to stop the case” following the “withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light”.
Those developments meant there was “no longer a realistic prospect of conviction”, it added.
“In these circumstances, we are under a duty to stop the case. We have explained our decision to all parties.”
GMP’s head of public protection and Chief Superintendent, Michaela Kerr, said it was “only fair” that the force publicised the latest development given the “significant media coverage of this case”.
She added: “The investigation team has remained in regular contact with the legal team, providing any updates of note, and so understand the rationale for the discontinuation of proceedings at this stage, and that this decision has not been taken lightly.
“Despite the media and public’s interest in this case, we have decided not to comment on it in any further detail.”
The CS appealed to people who felt they were victims, insisting that GMP is “committed to investigating allegations of violence against women and girls”.
She continued: “An ever-increasing number of officers are receiving specialist training and the force is more consistently utilising tools, available via the criminal justice system, to keep people safe and care for victims.
“If you feel you are or might be a victim, please don’t let this case put you off asking for help.”
Greenwood, who has made one appearance for England, was suspended from playing or training with Manchester United.
Since the charges against Greenwood, Nike suspended and later terminated its sponsorship deal with him.
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