Dan Ashworth's tenure at Manchester United came to an abrupt end after a crisis meeting with CEO Omar Berrada, following the team's miserable 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest.
Ashworth, who joined the Red Devils in July after a spell of gardening leave from Newcastle United - with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe declaring him "one of the top sporting directors in the world" and forking out £3m for his services - had only been in his role for five months.
During a summer spree, he oversaw the signings of Manuel Ugarte, Leny Yoro, Noussair Mazraoui, Mattijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee, splashing out approximately £200m. But the summer splurge did not reap results, with all but Mazraoui failing to make a positive impression so far, manager Erik ten Hag sacked after a record worst start to the season, and United slumped in 13th in the Premier League.
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The Athletic reports that Ashworth's integration into the club "has not been smooth". His position clashed with Sir Jim Ratcliffe's established hierarchy, which includes INEO head of sport Sir Dave Brailsford and Berrada.
Ratcliffe played a crucial role in the decision to cut ties with Ashworth, a move "instigated by United", despite claims of a mutual agreement on his departure, reports the Mirror. This shake-up occurs just before the January transfer window, where United are anticipated to be active in trying to support struggling new manager Ruben Amorim's squad during a challenging season.
Dan Ashworth's time as Manchester United sporting director is over already
Dan Ashworth's time as Manchester United sporting director is over already (Image: PA)
On Sunday morning, the club issued a succinct 41-word statement confirming Ashworth's departure amid rumours of his exit. "Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement," the statement announced. "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."
Manchester United spent approximately £3m to secure the services of Ashworth from Newcastle, concluding prolonged talks with the Magpies. Ashworth made it known he was keen on a switch to Old Trafford back in February, resulting in a wait until summer before the move came to fruition.
Previously, Ratcliffe had shown considerable appreciation for Ashworth's talents, lauding him prior to his United transfer in February by commenting: "Dan Ashworth is clearly one of the top sporting directors in the world. I have no doubt he is a very capable person. He would be a very good addition."