Dan Ashworth’s Departure Highlights Turmoil in Manchester United Leadership

Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s decision to dismiss the sporting director after just five months reflects deeper issues in the club's structure and culture.

Dan Ashworth was dismissed as Manchester United's sporting director just 159 days after his appointment, with Sir Jim Ratcliffe citing a lack of alignment and effectiveness in the role.
The decision has intensified a culture of fear among club staff, already strained by job cuts, hiring freezes, and cost-saving measures, including the cancellation of the Christmas party.
Ashworth’s tenure was marked by limited influence in key decisions, including the appointment of manager Ruben Amorim, and personality clashes within the leadership structure.
Manchester United’s financial struggles, including £312.9 million in losses over three seasons, have led to controversial measures like ticket price increases and ongoing reviews of expenditure.
Critics highlight the club's chaotic decision-making, including costly managerial changes and recruitment missteps, as emblematic of deeper structural inefficiencies.