- Manchester United to officially announce Dan Ashworth
- Ashworth boasts a rich experience
- The appointment of Ashworth suggests a renewed focus
Manchester United are on the verge of officially announcing Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director.
The 53-year-old had been in limbo since February after informing Newcastle United of his desire to join the revamped Manchester United team under Ineos ownership.
Stuck in a contractual dispute, Ashworth was prepared to take Newcastle to arbitration to expedite his move. Thankfully for both parties, an out-of-court settlement was reached late last week, paving the way for Ashworth’s immediate start at Old Trafford.
“It doesn’t make sense for him to be sidelined for 18 months,” said Sir Jim Ratcliffe, Manchester United co-owner, back in February. This sentiment seems to have finally translated into action.
Ashworth boasts a rich experience in football leadership, having worked at West Brom, the FA, and Brighton before his short stint at Newcastle. Notably, he shares a long-standing professional relationship with Sir Dave Brailsford, head of sport at Ineos, dating back to their FA days.
Ashworth’s arrival marks another step in Manchester United’s leadership reshuffle. Jason Wilcox from Southampton has already joined as technical director, while senior ex-Manchester City executive Omar Berrada is expected to take the CEO position.
These changes follow Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s acquisition of a minority stake in the club earlier this year, handing control of football operations to his Ineos Group.
Despite a lackluster season that saw them win only the FA Cup, the club board confirmed Erik ten Hag’s continuation as manager earlier this month. The appointment of Ashworth suggests a renewed focus on building a strong foundation for future success at Manchester United.
