Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth has left Old Trafford after only 5 months in this role.
The former Newcastle and England manager left after a meeting with chief executive Omar Berrada - who also arrived this summer - at Old Trafford on Saturday evening (local time). Not long ago, Man United had a disappointing 3-3 loss to Nottingham Forest in round 15 of the Premier League.
Co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe played a key role in the decision. Ashworth's departure is said to be mutually beneficial. Meanwhile, technical director Jason Wilcox remains at the club.
A statement from Man United said: "Dan Ashworth will leave the role of Manchester United's sporting director by mutual consent. We would like to thank Dan Ashworth for his work and support during the club's transition period. Wishing him all the best for the future."
Ashworth has been a long-term target for Ratcliffe since he bought Man United. After a long period of negotiations with his former club Newcastle, Ashworth was allowed to leave St James' Park and move to Old Trafford to work.
The Magpies initially demanded £20 million to allow Ashworth to leave, but eventually agreed a compensation package worth around £2 million or £2 million.
A statement from both clubs in July reads: "New Newcastle and Man United have reached an agreement to immediately release Dan Ashworth from his Newcastle contract obligations.
The terms of the agreement remain confidential between the clubs. Newcastle would like to thank Dan Ashworth for his contribution and wish him well for the future.
Although the "Red Devils" were delighted to have Ashworth, some said that the transfer process did not go as smoothly as expected. Because Man United seemed to be the one to take the initiative to push him away.
According to The Athletic, Ashworth left immediately after the surprising 3-2 loss to Nottingham Forest. The 53-year-old has had a huge impact on the Red Devils' transfer activities this summer.
Man United have spent around £200 million on five new players, including expensive signings such as Leny Yoro, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs de Ligt and Joshua Zirkzee. However, those spending have not contributed to improving the team's performance so far.
Man United are not the only Premier League side to part ways with their sporting director this season. Edu also left Arsenal in a surprising way at the start of the season.
