Dan Ashworth Leaves Manchester United After Just Five Months in Shock Exit

Dan Ashworth’s tenure as Manchester United’s sporting director has come to an abrupt end after just five months in the role. The decision to part ways was reached following a meeting between Ashworth and chief executive Omar Berrada at Old Trafford after United’s match against Nottingham Forest.

The move comes as a surprise given Ashworth’s prominent role in restructuring the club and his reputation as one of football’s most respected sporting directors. Appointed in July 2024 after a lengthy negotiation process with Newcastle United, his sudden departure signals major changes under United’s new ownership led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

A Mutual Decision or a Club Instigated Move?

While United’s official statement describes the exit as a “mutual agreement,” multiple sources indicate the club instigated the separation. The statement read:

“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.”

This swift departure highlights potential disconnects in the club’s revamped leadership structure. Ashworth’s role placed him in charge of performance, recruitment, and operations, working alongside Jason Wilcox, the technical director, and reporting to Berrada. However, Ratcliffe’s influence, along with Sir Dave Brailsford’s oversight, appears to have been a key factor in the decision.