Manchester United’s plans for a potential replacement for Dan Ashworth has been revealed after the sporting director’s Old Trafford exit.
Dan Ashworth, recruited as part of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s overhaul of Manchester United’s upper management, arrived from Newcastle United during the summer.
His hiring followed protracted negotiations, during which he spent six months on gardening leave, with United ultimately paying approximately £3 million in compensation to secure his early release from the Magpies.
Despite the considerable effort to bring him on board, Ashworth’s tenure at Old Trafford has come to an unexpected end.
In a statement, United confirmed his departure from his role at the club. “Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement,” it read.
“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.”
Reports indicate that the decision was driven by the club, with co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe playing a pivotal role in Ashworth’s exit.
United’s plans revealed
Many are now questionable what happens next and who comes in to replace the departing Ashworth.
However, a report from MailOnline has claimed that United are not thought to be searching for a replacement at this stage.
It was added that his shock departure was finalised in a meeting with United CEO Omar Berrada after the defeat against Nottingham Forest on Saturday evening.
As things stand, United have Jason Wilcox as the technical director, Berrada as the CEO and Christopher Vivell as the interim director of recruitment.
The report also claimed that it was clear to all parties that the relationship was not working and Ashworth was not the fit club chiefs had hoped it would be.
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