Manchester United chief Dan Ashworth has left the Premier League giants after just five months in his sporting director role.
The former Newcastle and England chief departs after a meeting with chief executive Omar Berrada – who also arrived in the summer – at Old Trafford on Saturday night, following the club’s 3-2 defeat by Nottingham Forest.
Under-pressure co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe played a key role in the decision, while Ashworth’s exit has been billed as ‘mutual’. Technical director Jason Wilcox – who previously reported to Ashworth – remain at the club.
A club statement read: “Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement. We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future.”
Ashworth was a long-term target for INEOS owner Ratcliffe following his purchase of the Old Trafford club. He eventually signed for United following a lengthy period of talks with his former club Newcastle – with Ashworth being placed on gardening leave at St James’ Park.
The Magpies were initially demanding £20m to release Ashworth, but eventually agreed a compensation package worth around £2-£3m.
A statement from both clubs in July read: “ Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United. The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.”
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And while United were delighted to get Ashworth on board in the end, it is suggested that the transition has not been as smooth as expected, with United apparently instigating his departure.
As first reported by The Athletic, he has left with immediate effect, with his final game with the club being the shock 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Ashworth heavily influenced the Red Devils’ transfer business in the summer.
United spent around £200m on five arrivals that included the big-money signings of Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee. But that outlay has not contributed to improved performances.. But that outlay has not contributed to improved performances.
United sit 13th in the Premier League table after defeat to Forest. Their form earlier this season saw former boss Erik ten Hag sacked – a decision that Ashworth played a part in. Ashworth has also previously held roles with West Bromwich Albion and Brighton.
United are not the only Premier League side to be left without a sporting director this season. Edu sensationally left Arsenal earlier this campaign. He looks set to claim a role within Evangelos Marinakis’ multi-club setup.
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