Arsenal is reportedly considering Dan Ashworth for their vacant sporting director position following his unexpected departure from Manchester United.
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United announced on Sunday that Ashworth had left Old Trafford by “mutual agreement,” just five months after taking up the role of the club’s first-ever sporting director. His exit comes amid reports of internal conflicts with United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other senior figures.
Disagreements reportedly stemmed from key issues, including the decision to extend Erik ten Hag’s contract over the summer and Ashworth’s proposed replacements for the manager. The shortlist included Gareth Southgate, Thomas Frank, and Marco Silva, decisions that reportedly clashed with the vision of the club’s ownership.
Arsenal’s interest in Ashworth comes as they seek a replacement for Edu, who resigned as their sporting director last month. The North London club is keen to leverage Ashworth’s extensive experience to fill the void.
According to ESPN, Ashworth’s availability has placed him on Arsenal’s shortlist. The club’s managing director, Richard Garlick, is leading the search for Edu’s successor and has a strong professional history with Ashworth from their time at West Brom.
Ashworth left West Brom in 2012 to become the Football Association’s director of elite development, a role he held for six years before moving to Brighton as sporting director. His subsequent move to Newcastle United in 2022 highlighted his growing reputation, and United reportedly paid £5 million in compensation to secure his services earlier this year.
For Arsenal, Ashworth represents a potential coup, bringing his deep understanding of football operations and development to help the Gunners maintain their upward trajectory.
