REVEALED: The real reason why Dan Ashworth left Manchester United

Manchester United has confirmed the departure of sporting director Dan Ashworth after just five months in the role. The announcement came shortly after reports of growing tensions between Ashworth and the club’s co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe over the club’s summer strategy and overall direction.

Ashworth’s departure was finalized following a meeting with United’s chief executive Omar Berrada on Saturday evening, shortly after United’s disappointing Premier League loss to Nottingham Forest. Sources suggest Ashworth’s transition into his role at Old Trafford “was not smooth,” and the decision to part ways was “instigated” by the club.

During his time at Manchester United, Ashworth oversaw recruitment, football performance, and operations. His track record had previously earned him high respect, with Ratcliffe describing him as “one of the top sporting directors in the world.” However, according to The Athletic, Ashworth felt “sidelined” from key decisions, which were reportedly made by Berrada and Sir Dave Brailsford.

Football journalist Fabrizio Romano shared insight into the situation, revealing that Ratcliffe was “not happy at all” with United’s summer transfer strategy, which saw the club spend approximately £3 million to bring Ashworth from Newcastle United. Romano described the environment at Old Trafford as “tense.”

❗️ Dan Ashworth left his role at Manchester United after 5 months, it’s over with the sporting director as revealed by @TheAthleticFC.

Tense situation with Sir Jim Ratcliffe, not happy at all with last summer strategy.

United spent around £3m to get Ashworth from Newcastle. pic.twitter.com/klfc9sQ5jb

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) December 8, 2024

Further reports from talkSPORT revealed that the appointment of Ruben Amorim as manager was a tipping point for Ashworth. He had reportedly pushed for a British coach, such as Gareth Southgate, but his preferences were overlooked. Personality clashes within the leadership also contributed to the growing discord.

Manchester United released an official statement on Sunday morning confirming the mutual decision to part ways with Ashworth.

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.”

Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement.#MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 8, 2024

Ahead of United’s match against Nottingham Forest, Ratcliffe did not hold back in describing the club’s current state as “mediocre.” He emphasized the need for difficult and potentially unpopular decisions to drive meaningful change at the club.

“Manchester United has become mediocre,” Ratcliffe said in an interview. “It is supposed to be one of the best football clubs in the world. We have to make some difficult and unpopular decisions. If you shy away from the difficult decisions, then nothing much is going to change.”

Ratcliffe also highlighted the importance of reducing unnecessary costs and investing in top-quality players rather than overspending on infrastructure.