Manchester United's sporting director, Dan Ashworth, has left his position just five months after officially taking on the role.

Ashworth, who began his tenure at Old Trafford on July 1 following a five-month gardening leave from his previous role at Newcastle United, saw his departure finalized in a meeting shortly after United's 3-2 home loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Sources familiar with the matter confirmed the development.

The Athletic first reported the 53-year-old's exit on Sunday. In a statement, Manchester United described the decision as being reached by "mutual agreement" and expressed gratitude for Ashworth’s contributions during a challenging period for the club. The statement read: "We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future."

Ashworth was spotted walking through the press conference area with the club's chief operating officer, Collette Roche, following the Forest match. It is believed he was en route to the meeting where his departure was formalized.

Turbulent Times at Old Trafford

United's season has been fraught with challenges. The club dismissed manager Erik ten Hag in October after securing only three wins in their first nine Premier League matches. The decision to part ways with Ten Hag and his staff cost United £10.4 million. Subsequently, the club paid an additional £11 million to activate the release clause of his successor, Ruben Amorim.

Off the pitch, United's co-owner, Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has faced criticism from fans for controversial changes, including the removal of concessions on the remaining 3% of unsold tickets for Premier League matches and introducing a minimum ticket price of £66. The decision sparked protests at Old Trafford before last weekend's victory over Everton.

Ratcliffe has publicly described United as "mediocre" and hinted at the need for further "difficult and unpopular decisions" as part of a long-term rebuilding strategy.

Financial Struggles

United's financial woes have compounded the on-field struggles. In the latest accounts, covering the period up to June 30, 2024, the club reported a net loss of £113.2 million, contributing to a total loss of over £370 million in the past five years.

Currently sitting 13th in the Premier League table with only five wins from 15 matches, the loss to Forest encapsulated a season of disappointment for the Red Devils.

Ashworth's short-lived stint underscores the ongoing turbulence at Old Trafford, as the club navigates one of the most challenging periods in its modern history. Photo by Abhijit Tembhekar from Pune, INDIA, Wikimedia commons.