Dan Ashworth only joined Manchester United in the summer following his exit from Newcastle but has already left Old Trafford in what is billed as a mutual decision from all parties
Dan Ashworth
Dan Ashworth has already left Manchester United
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Image: Getty Images)
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Manchester United chief Dan Ashworth has QUIT the club just five months after joining.
According to The Athletic, the former Newcastle man has left Old Trafford. He departs after a meeting with fellow summer arrival Omar Berrada.
Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly key in the decision, while Ashworth's exit has been billed as 'mutual'.
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 - Ashworth being placed on gardening leave at St James' Park.
The Magpies were reportedly demanding around £20m to release Ashworth, but they only managed to agree 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.”
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.
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 signigs of Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee. But that outlay has not contributed to improved performances.
United sit 13th in the Premier League table after defeat to Forest.
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