Dan Ashworth Exits Manchester United After Five Months
Dan Ashworth’s tenure as Manchester United’s sporting director has come to an abrupt end after just five months in the role.
Ashworth joined United on July 1 following a period of gardening leave from Newcastle United, but his time at Old Trafford has been marked by challenges, ultimately leading to his departure.
The decision to part ways is reportedly linked to Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who played a significant role in reshaping the club’s hierarchy. The move has left many at United surprised, considering Ashworth’s prominent role in the club’s efforts to revamp its football operations.
While United stated that the separation was mutual, multiple sources suggest the club initiated the process. Ashworth was tasked with overseeing football performance, recruitment, and operations under the new structure led by Ratcliffe and Sir Dave Brailsford. Technical director Jason Wilcox reported directly to him.
Ashworth was part of key decisions, including extending Erik ten Hag’s contract in June, though Ten Hag was later dismissed in October. Ruben Amorim’s appointment as manager followed, but it is said that other executives were more influential in that choice.
During Ashworth’s time, United spent significantly on transfers, bringing in players like Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs De Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Joshua Zirkzee in a summer outlay of around £200 million.
Despite these contributions, Ashworth’s departure signals a shift in direction under the new leadership, leaving fans and staff speculating on what’s next for the club.
