Dan Ashworth
Manchester United have confirmed the departure of sporting director Dan Ashworth after just FIVE MONTHS at the club.
The 53-year-old only joined the Red Devils in July as Sir Jim Ratcliffe made a number of huge changes behind the scenes. United struck a deal with his former employers Newcastle following a lengthy period of talks in which Ratcliffe was put on gardening leave at St James' Park.
The two clubs eventually confirmed his move. But just months later, the Red Devils have announced Ashworth's exit. A club statement read: "Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement.
"We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future."
The Athletic reportedthat the transition of Ratcliffe taking control at Old Trafford has not been as smooth as expected. A statement confirming his arrival 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.”
Since then, Ratcliffe has played a pivotal role when it comes to transfer. United spent around £200m in the summer on five new faces: Matthijs de Ligt, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Leny Yoro and Noussair Mazraoui.
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Ratcliffe was reportedly called into a meeting with fellow summer arrival Omar Berrada, where his departure was agreed upon. It is suggested that owner Ratcliffe was also key in the decision.
Away from Old Trafford, Ashworth has also held roles with Brighton, West Brom and the FA. His final game with United was Saturday's shock 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest.
It leaves the club 13th in the Premier League table after their sixth loss of the campaign - while they have lost back-to-back league games under new boss Ruben Amorim.
The Red Devils are back in action in midweek as they take on Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League ahead of a clash with Manchester City.
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