Everyone connected to Manchester United can expect to be asked about Dan Ashworth’s exit as sporting director.
Ruben Amorim is already growing sick and tired of his media duties as Manchester United head coach and he will know exactly what to expect in his next press conference following the shock news about Dan Ashworth’s departure.
United confirmed Ashworth’s exit on Sunday with a very blunt statement that hinted at unrest behind the scenes.
Reports suggest Sir Jim Ratcliffe was disappointed by Ashworth’s decisions when it came to transfer strategy, manager appointments and also wanting to outsource to data companies.
There was also tension between Ashworth and Omar Berrada, with the latter being the driving force behind Amorim’s appointment as head coach.
CEO Omar Berrada of Manchester United and Sporting director Dan Ashworth during the UEFA Europa League 2024/25 League Phase MD4 match between Manch...
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Marc Skinner asked about Dan Ashworth exit
As sporting director, Ashworth was responsible for overseeing United’s men and women’s teams.
Back in September, United’s women’s team manager Marc Skinner praised Ashworth for his repeated visits and interest in the women’s side.
As quoted by Manchester Evening News, Skinner said: “Dan is coming in this morning to speak to the players again, as he’s already been two or three times, about what it means to be at Manchester United, what we want to achieve. That shows the positivity around the club.”
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Skinner led United to a 4-0 win over Liverpool in the Women’s Super League on Sunday and was the first coach to be questioned about Ashworth’s exit.
He told reporters: “My job is to concentrate on how we are on the pitch.
“That’s my focus. I’m not privy to those decisions. I think it’s part of the professional game. You have to take situations and make the best of them. I can’t let that creep into our performances.”
What next for Man United after Dan Ashworth departs?
Just as it looked as though United had a proper footballing structure in place, Ashworth’s exit means it is back to the drawing board.
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It is not yet clear whether United intend to hire a new chief to replace Ashworth. United have showed interest in Andrea Berta as a new sporting director, but Ineos could also look internally for a solution.
READ MORE: Three winners and three losers as Manchester United part ways with Dan Ashworth
Jason Wilcox and Christopher Vivell could step up and assume some of Ashworth’s responsibilities, while Omar Berrada and Sir Dave Brailsford are also helping out with the operational side of the club.
United now know that too many cooks can spoil the broth so reshuffling the current directors at the club is certainly one option that could be explored.
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