Sun Dec 08 18:18:09 UTC 2024: ## Manchester United’s Sporting Director Quits After Just Five Months
**Manchester, UK –** Dan Ashworth has abruptly left his post as Manchester United’s sporting director after only five months, the club announced Sunday. His departure comes just days after a 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest, adding to a turbulent period for the club.
Ashworth, 53, joined United in July after a lengthy gardening leave period at Newcastle United. His appointment was heralded as a significant coup by the club’s owners, INEOS, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe praising him as one of the world’s best. During his short tenure, he oversaw a £200 million summer spending spree on new players, including Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Joshua Zirkzee, Matthijs de Light and Noussair Mazraoui. He was also involved in the high-profile sacking of manager Erik ten Hag and the subsequent appointment of Ruben Amorim.
However, sources suggest that Ashworth’s role proved less impactful than anticipated. CEO Omar Berrada, hired from Manchester City, reportedly took the lead in negotiations for Amorim’s appointment, raising questions about Ashworth’s influence within the club’s structure. While the club states the departure was by mutual agreement, the swift exit is raising eyebrows and fueling criticism of INEOS’ management of football operations at Old Trafford. The significant compensation paid to Newcastle to secure Ashworth, coupled with the cost of his departure, adds to the financial burden on the club. This follows the already controversial sacking of Ten Hag, further fueling criticism of INEOS’s handling of Manchester United.
The departure is being viewed by some as another costly mistake, particularly given the recent mass redundancies and ticket price increases. The club’s statement thanked Ashworth for his service during a “transitional period.” However, the timing and circumstances of his departure have prompted widespread speculation about the future direction of Manchester United under INEOS’ ownership.
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