Manchester United Sporting Director Dan Ashworth Exits After Five Months

Manchester United's sporting director Dan Ashworth has left the club after a mere five months in the role, casting uncertainty over the club's football direction. The mutual decision to part ways, as stated by the club, has been disputed by sources close to the matter, with claims that the fit simply didn't work out.

Ashworth's appointment in July this year was seen as a promising move for Manchester United, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe expressing optimism about his potential impact. However, his tenure has been marked by controversy, particularly surrounding the decision to retain former manager Erik ten Hag and the subsequent recruitment of new players. Ashworth was reportedly blamed for the decision to keep Ten Hag, despite Ratcliffe initially wanting to sack him.

The £200m recruitment of new players has failed to yield significant results, and the club is currently facing financial difficulties due to Profit and Sustainability (PSR) regulations. The club's management structure, with influential voices including Wilcox, Vivell, and Blanc, has added to the confusion. Ashworth's departure has raised questions about the club's direction, and Sir Dave Brailsford, a close ally of Ashworth, has lost a key ally.

The incoming new hierarchy, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, had placed Ashworth in charge of football performance, recruitment, and operations. However, the two parties were unable to come to a mutually agreeable contract extension, leading to Ashworth's departure. Multiple sources have claimed that the club initiated the separation, although the club has stated that the agreement to end Ashworth's contract was mutual.

The uncertainties surrounding Ashworth's exit have left supporters eagerly awaiting clarity on the club's future, particularly regarding the tenure of manager Erik ten Hag and the direction of football operations. The situation has not only affected Manchester United but also had an impact on the transfer market, with Liverpool's new offer to Mohamed Salah and Arsenal's attempts to ward off interest in Jakub Kiwior.