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NEW DELHI: Manchester United announced the unexpected exit of sporting director Dan Ashworth on Sunday, merely five months into his tenure at Old Trafford.
The decision regarding Ashworth’s departure was finalised following Saturday’s disappointing 3-2 home loss to Nottingham Forest.
His recruitment was considered significant amidst extensive changes to the club’s sporting framework implemented since Jim Ratcliffe acquired a minority stake in December 2023.
Ashworth, aged 53, commenced his role on July 1 after a five-month gardening leave period from Newcastle whilst Manchester United pursued him.
The Athletic indicated that disagreements had developed between Ashworth and Ratcliffe regarding the performance outcomes from nearly £200 million ($255 million) invested in summer transfers.
The recent acquisitions — Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs De Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui and Joshua Zirkzee — have struggled to perform effectively.
United currently occupy 13th position in the Premier League and dismissed Erik ten Hag in October, shortly after extending his contract.
Recently appointed Ruben Amorim has achieved only one victory in his initial four Premier League fixtures.
“Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as sporting director of Manchester United by mutual agreement,” United stated officially.
“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.”
Ashworth’s previous achievements include establishing successful systems at the Football Association that enhanced England’s national team performance.
Subsequently, he contributed to Brighton’s establishment as a Premier League club before joining Newcastle in 2022.
Following lengthy negotiations, United reportedly paid £3 million in compensation to secure Ashworth’s services.
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