Manchester United has experienced a significant decline, going from winning titles to barely securing a top-four finish in the Premier League. They are still among the top revenue-generating sports entities in the world with substantial annual revenues.
The club is anticipating a major overhaul in both their squad and the backroom staff under the leadership of their new owners. Following a comprehensive search, Omar Berrada was appointed as the new CEO. whereas for the role of sporting director, a former English player was named the sole candidate.
Response from close sources to Dan Ashworth
The Premier League has officially approved the takeover of a minority stake in Manchester United, with 25% of the shares being acquired by the INEOS group consortium led by British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe, making them the new co-owners.
Now, the only approval needed for the deal is from the Football Association (FA), and it’s anticipated that it will be granted soon. Given that they will take direct charge of all sporting operations moving forward, there is a strong desire to appoint Dan Ashworth as the club’s new Sporting Director.
Ashworth is currently serving as Newcastle United’s Sporting Director, a position he has held since 2022. His recruitment policy at St. James’ Park has earned him a reputation as a talent spotter. Reports suggest that he is open to joining Manchester United to work under INEOS CEO Jean-Claude Blanc and Sir Dave Brailsford.
The 52-year-old is the primary target to collaborate with the latest recruitment, Berrada, in leading the sporting administration. Discussions are anticipated to escalate in the coming days, as reported by The Athletic. Contrarily, sources close to Ashworth maintain that he is content with his position at Newcastle.
Manchester United to face potential challenge from Liverpool in Ashworth chase
Manchester United and Liverpool are both considering the possibility of hiring former Brighton & Hove Albion Sporting Director Dan Ashworth. They are looking to hire a new Sporting Director with a track record of success, and Ashworth is a perfect fit for the position.
With Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp poised to depart at the end of this campaign, the club is bracing for significant staff changes.
Alongside him, the current Sporting Director, Jorg Schmadtke, is also set to leave. Consequently, Dan Ashworth emerges as a suitable choice for an arrival at Anfield.
Additionally, the Reds could disrupt United’s interest in Bayer Leverkusen’s duo, Edmond Tapsoba and Jeremie Frimpong, eyeing them for a summer move. Their plan to appoint Xavi Alonso as their new coach is seen as a like-for-like replacement for the German manager, further intensifying the off-pitch rivalry.
