“It is a shock” | Laurie Whitwell explains why Dan Ashworth is leaving Man United

Shockwaves at Old Trafford as Manchester United Confirm Dan Ashworth’s Departure

In a stunning turn of events, Manchester United has announced that Dan Ashworth, the club’s sporting director, is leaving the club by mutual consent. The news comes just five months after Ashworth joined the club from Newcastle United, where he was instrumental in identifying and recruiting Ruben Amarno, the new head coach.

A Sudden Departure

According to multiple sources, the decision was made just after the match against Nottingham Forest, with the club’s hierarchy deciding that it was not in the best interest of the team to move forward with Ashworth at the helm. While the exact reasons behind the departure remain unclear, sources close to the club suggest that there were some fundamental differences in opinion on the direction of the team.

Jim Ratcliffe’s Influence

Manchester United’s billionaire owner, Jim Ratcliffe, is said to have played a pivotal role in the decision, with some insiders suggesting that the the relationship between Ratcliffe and Ashworth did not work out as expected. Ratcliffe, known for his no-nonsense attitude, is said to have been instrumental in shaping the club’s transfer policy and has reportedly been vocal about his desire to see immediate results on the pitch.

A Blow to the Fans

The news has sent shockwaves through the Manchester United fan base, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment and frustration. The decision to leave Ashworth has also raised questions about the club’s ability to manage the team effectively, with some calling for greater transparency and fan representation in the decision-making process.

Ticket Price Hikes

The timing of the announcement has also sparked concerns about the club’s priorities, with some fans already reeling from the recent ticket price hikes. The club’s decision to increase prices by 66 pounds per match, just days after the announcement, has led to widespread criticism and debate about the club’s commitment to its loyal supporters.

What’s Next for Manchester United?

As the club moves forward without Ashworth, questions remain about the future of the team and the role of Ruben Amarno, the new head coach. The appointment of a new sporting director is also likely, with the club looking to implement a fresh approach to transfers and team management.

In the meantime, the Manchester United faithful will be closely following developments, eager to see how the club will respond to this latest setback. Will they be able to regroup and refocus, or will the departure of Ashworth continue to create uncertainty at the heart of the club? Only time will tell.