Manchester United has confirmed the appointment of Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director following an agreement with Newcastle United. The two Premier League clubs issued a joint statement on Monday announcing Ashworth’s release from his contract at St. James’ Park.
Earlier this year, the 53-year-old Ashworth was placed on gardening leave by Newcastle after expressing his desire to move to Old Trafford. While no compensation details have been disclosed, it is understood that Ashworth will assume his new role at Manchester United immediately.
The statement read, “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 thanks Dan for his services and wishes him well for the future.”
United’s interest in Ashworth emerged after Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS company acquired a minority stake in the club and took over football operations. Despite reports that Newcastle initially sought £20 million ($25 million) in compensation—a figure Ratcliffe described as “a bit silly”—a compromise was reached.
Ashworth, previously technical director at the Football Association, is the latest addition to Manchester United’s overhauled backroom staff. Omar Berrada is joining from Manchester City as chief executive, and Jason Wilcox, previously at Southampton, is the new technical director.
Speaking earlier this year, Ratcliffe praised Ashworth, saying, “I think Dan Ashworth is clearly one of the top sporting directors in the world. I’ve no doubt he’s a very, very capable person. And he’s interested in the Manchester United job because it’s probably the biggest sporting director job in the world just now, with the biggest challenge.”
Manchester United ended a disappointing campaign last season by winning the FA Cup, defeating Manchester City in the final. Despite facing significant pressure, manager Erik ten Hag will remain at the club, preparing for his third season in charge.
