Ashworth leaves Manchester United

Manchester

Dan Ashworth has stepped down from his role as Sporting Director at Manchester United after just five months. Ashworth, who joined the club in July following a long gardening leave from Newcastle United, parted ways with United by mutual agreement. A statement from the club expressed gratitude for his contributions during a transitional period but confirmed his departure on Sunday. His exit came after a meeting with United's chief executive, Omar Berrada, following the club’s Premier League match against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Ashworth's tenure at Old Trafford was marked by some key decisions, including the extension of former head coach Erik Ten Hag’s contract over the summer. This move was reportedly one of the reasons for Ashworth's exit, as Ten Hag was dismissed just weeks into the new season. The decision, which backfired, led to frustration from co-owner Jim Ratcliffe. In addition to his role in managerial decisions, Ashworth oversaw a substantial summer spending spree at Manchester United, with signings such as Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs De Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, and Joshua Zirkzee, costing the club approximately £200 million (280 million USD). Ashworth’s departure is a significant development for the club, especially considering Manchester United's effort to lure him away from Newcastle earlier this year.