Manchester United's sporting director Dan Ashworth has parted ways with the club after only five months in the role. The departure came post discussions with chief executive Omar Berrada at Old Trafford on Saturday night, following a 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who is facing pressure as co-owner, was reportedly instrumental in the decision, which has been described as 'mutual'. Despite Ashworth's exit, technical director Jason Wilcox will continue his tenure at the club.
Ashworth had been on INEOS owner Ratcliffe's radar for some time after he took over at Old Trafford, and his move to United came after protracted negotiations with his previous club Newcastle, which included a period of gardening leave at St James' Park.
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A joint statement from the clubs in July confirmed: "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."
While Manchester United were initially thrilled to secure Ashworth's services, it appears the transition hasn't been as seamless as anticipated, with reports suggesting that United triggered his departure. As initially reported by The Athletic, Ashworth has left his role with immediate effect, his final game being the surprising 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday.
Dan Ashworth
Dan Ashworth only joined the Red Devils in July (Image: Getty Images)
Ashworth had a significant impact on United's summer transfer dealings, which saw the club spend around $250m (£200m) on five new signings, including high-profile acquisitions like Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee. However, this investment hasn't translated into improved performances on the pitch.
Following their defeat to Forest, United currently sit in 13th place in the Premier League table. Their earlier season form led to the dismissal of former manager Erik ten Hag, a decision in which Ashworth was involved.
Prior to his stint at United, Ashworth held positions at West Bromwich Albion and Brighton. United aren't the only Premier League team to find themselves without a sporting director this season - Edu also made a sensational exit from Arsenal earlier in the campaign. He is now expected to take up a role within Evangelos Marinakis' multi-club setup.