Dan Ashworth
Ashworth has left United. (Image: 2022 Newcastle United)
Manchester United have thanked Dan Ashworth for his work as sporting director and wished him well for the future.
Ashworth's departure from his role as the inaugural sporting director at Old Trafford after just five months was confirmed on Sunday morning and sent shockwaves around football.
Ratcliffe described Ashworth as one of "the top sporting directors in the world" when he joined in the summer but a "mutual" decision has been taken to end his contract.
United released a 41-word statement and said: “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.”
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Club sources have claimed the decision was made collaboratively "following a period of transition" but it's thought Ineos instigated the decision to end Ashworth's contract.
The decision has been described as very difficult for both parties and United reiterated Ashworth has conducted himself with integrity and decency throughout his time at the club.
Ashworth served a lengthy period of four months gardening leave before starting work at United and was expected to usher in a new era at United following Ineos' investment.
Ratcliffe was recently interviewed by United We Stand magazine and the British billionaire said: "Manchester United must have the best recruitment in the world. You can't just flick a light switch and sort out recruitment. It's all about people and we need to find the right ones."
Ashworth was involved in United's recruitment in the summer, which saw over £200million spent on Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraou.
United's recruitment from the summer window has been criticised. Zirkzee has failed to hit the ground running and there are questions marks surrounding other arrivals.
The decision to keep Erik ten Hag after a poor campaign was also contentious. The Dutchman was backed by club executives but Ashworth was quoted on his contract extension.