Dan Ashworth
Dan Ashworth (Image: MUFC/Manchester United via Getty Images)
Dan Ashworth was reportedly watching Manchester United's defeat against Nottingham Forest with his family when he was called in for his abrupt dismissal.
Ashworth, who joined Man United from Newcastle United just five months ago, had only overseen one transfer window and the hiring and subsequent firing of manager Erik ten Hag. The club has struggled this season, with ten Hag being let go while the team languished in the bottom half of the table with a mere 11 points from nine matches. Under ten Hag's successor, Ruben Amorim, they have managed to secure only four points from four games.
After suffering a second consecutive league loss on Saturday, this time a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Nuno Espirito Santo's Forest, things took a turn for the worse for Ashworth. The Mail reports that Man United CEO Omar Berrada called Ashworth from the directors' box to deliver the news.
Ashworth, who had been watching the match with his family as goals from Nikola Milenkovic, Morgan Gibbs-White and Chris Wood sealed their fate, is said to have been dismissed following a decision made by part-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and right-hand man Sir Dave Brailsford, in consultation with long-time board member Joel Glazer. It is expected that Ashworth will receive a reduced pay-off due to his short tenure, and the club is not immediately seeking a direct replacement.
"Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement," Man United announced regarding the departure. "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.", reported the Mirror.
On the field, head coach Amorim is still fine-tuning his preferred lineup. Since taking the helm, the ex-Sporting CP manager has called upon 22 different players and reflected on this after Saturday's loss.
"Of course, every day, you learn a lot," he said. "The best team also depends on the opposition. You have to understand the opposition to put the right players with the right characteristics for every game. I know better our players and that is most important.
"I think everybody here has experienced ups and downs in football. You have to continue your job, doing the same things, being really convinced of your way. I'm really convinced of that. It's really hard to lose games. I know the public and the fans want to win. It's a long time without winning, without that feeling. We're in a long journey and we're going to do it."