Manchester United is on the verge of securing Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director, according to sources familiar with the situation. Ashworth, who is currently contracted with Newcastle United, is the prime candidate for the position and there is a growing belief within the club that he will accept the offer. Despite Newcastle’s desire to retain the services of the 52-year-old, they are apprehensive that Ashworth has already set his sights on a move to Old Trafford.
The potential recruitment of Ashworth would mark the second significant appointment for United following the recent agreement with Sir Jim Ratcliffe to acquire a 25% stake in the team. This agreement saw the appointment of Omar Berrada as the chief executive, who is transitioning from his previous role at Manchester City. Berrada is currently serving a gardening leave and is anticipated to assume his new responsibilities during the upcoming summer.
Ratcliffe’s minority investment is nearing completion, having received approval from the Premier League. Although United is awaiting formal endorsement from the FA, it is widely expected to be a mere formality with the official confirmation due as soon as next week. The INEOS director of sport, Sir Dave Brailsford, along with Ratcliffe’s team, are poised to oversee a comprehensive restructuring of the football operations, commencing with Ashworth’s anticipated arrival.
Role of Dan Ashworth
With a diverse professional background encompassing stints at Brighton, West Brom, and the FA, Ashworth is poised to wield substantial influence not only in his role as a sporting director but also in shaping the recruitment strategy of the club. His admiration for Sam Jewell, the head of recruitment at Brighton, hints at potential collaborative efforts within the recruitment department. While Manchester United is yet to initiate formal discussions with Newcastle regarding Ashworth, there is genuine optimism that an agreement will be reached in due course.
Manchester United’s strategic overhaul of their football operations is gaining momentum with the impending appointment of Dan Ashworth as the sporting director. The impending changes, spearheaded by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his team, are poised to usher in a new era for the club, with the recruitment of Ashworth serving as a pivotal step in this transformative process. As the landscape of the club’s leadership and decision-making structures evolve, the impending arrival of Ashworth signals a promising development in United’s quest for sustained success in the competitive footballing arena.
Leave a Reply