Speculation is growing at a rapid pace to suggest Dan Ashworth will soon leave Newcastle to become Manchester United’s sporting director.
First, Manchester United will need to pay a compensation package to Newcastle, but it is understood that Sir Dave Brailsford is keen for the highly respected Ashworth to start work at the club as soon as possible.
Ashworth, 52, is likely to be tasked with forming his own support team to help him at Old Trafford.
According to The Sun, that may involve hiring analyst Kyle Macaulay, who joined Chelsea with Graham Potter, and remains at Stamford Bridge despite the club since hiring Mauricio Pochettino as their latest manager.
The former Brighton scout appears to be on Ashworth’s wishlist and everything around INEOS’ arrival suggests they want to hit the ground running as they take control of football operations at the club.
United have also brought Ipswich technical director Sam Williams back to the club.
INEOS hiring the best in class
The proof is always in the pudding, but right now it is hard not to get excited about the prospect appointments that are set to take place at United. For far too long we’ve seen people in the wrong roles (Ed Woodward…) because the Glazers always prioritised commercial growth and penny pinching over football.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe has come in to make change and we hope that potential appointments such as Ashworth and Macaulay go on to be a success at Old Trafford.
INEOS are certainly making the right moves.
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