Dan Ashworth joins Manchester United as sporting director

Manchester United have announced the appointment of Dan Ashworth as sporting director. Ashworth, who was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle United in February, begins his new role at Old Trafford with immediate effect.

The 53-year-old’s move to Manchester United follows negotiations between the two clubs, which resulted in a confidential agreement for Ashworth’s release. Newcastle demanded £20m in damages when Manchester United asked for the sporting director, but a compromise was reached which also helps Newcastle meet the Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR).

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A joint statement from the clubs said: “Newcastle United and Manchester United have reached an agreement for the immediate release of Dan Ashworth from his contractual obligations at Newcastle United. The terms of this agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle United would like to thank Dan for his services and wish him well for the future.”

Ashworth’s appointment is the latest in a series of changes overseen by Sir Jim Ratcliffe and new minority investors INEOS since their takeover earlier this year. Sir Jim Ratcliffe was full of praise for Dan Ashworth, saying: “Dan Ashworth is clearly one of the best sporting directors in the world. I have no doubt that he is a very, very capable person.”

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Ashworth’s impressive track record includes West Brom, English FA, Brighton and his most recent role at Newcastle. His experience is expected to play a crucial role in Manchester United’s rebuilding efforts, where they are facing a significant period in their history that has lacked success in the top domestic and European competitions. Sir Jim Ratcliffe underlined the significance of Ashworth’s new role: “With Manchester United, you have quite an important building job. I think he would be a very good addition to Manchester United.”

Ashworth joins other recent additions to United’s squad, including Manchester City’s Omar Berrada as chief executive and Southampton’s Jason Wilcox as academy director.

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