Dan Ashworth leaves Manchester United sporting director role after 5 months

Dan Ashworth has stepped down as Manchester United’s sporting director after just five months in the role, with the decision being described as mutual by the club. The announcement came on Sunday, following discussions between Ashworth and Chief Executive Omar Berrada, reportedly triggered by United’s 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, according to The Athletic.

Ashworth, 53, joined United in July after a high-profile move from Newcastle United. During his brief tenure, he played a pivotal role in shaping the club’s direction under new minority owner Jim Ratcliffe. His contributions included key decisions, such as retaining manager Erik ten Hag and overseeing significant player investments totalling nearly 200 million pounds.

After the reports emerged on Sunday, December 8, United would release a statement on their website confirming Ashworth’s departure. The club said that the decision was by mutual agreement and thanked the former sporting director for his work with the club.

“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,” read the statement.

Tasked with overseeing performance and recruitment, Ashworth managed only one transfer window during his brief stint, orchestrating £200 million worth of signings, including Joshua Zirkzee, Leny Yoro, Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Manuel Ugarte.

At 53, Ashworth arrived at Old Trafford with lofty expectations, bolstered by his impressive track record at Brighton, the Football Association, and Newcastle. However, United’s challenging circumstances have made it difficult for him to replicate his previous successes, ultimately leading to his early departure.

United are currently languishing at 13th on the Premier League points table after their recent loss to Nottingham Forest at home. They will now face Viktoria Plzen in the Europa League and take on Manchester City on December 15 in the Premier League.