Arsenal are reported to have shortlisted Dan Ashworth for the role of sporting director just days after he was ditched by Manchester United.
Ashworth left Old Trafford at the weekend, and although the club claimed in their statement it was a mutual decision, it is believed there was a breakdown in relations between the 53-year-old and members of Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s Ineos Group.
Ratcliffe, in particular, is reported to have been angry that Ashworth distanced himself from the decision to award former United boss Erik ten Hag a new contract after a failed search for a replacement over the summer.
Dan Ashworth will be leaving his role as Sporting Director of Manchester United by mutual agreement.#MUFC
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 8, 2024
ESPN report Ashworth could make a swift return to the game having been added to the list of candidates for the position vacated by Edu last month.
The former Arsenal and Brazil midfielder resigned in order to take up a role overseeing the clubs owned by Greek shipping magnate Evangelos Marinakis, a collection that includes Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave.
No succession plan in place
Arsenal did not have a succession plan in place, according to ESPN, meaning they are having to start the recruitment process while Edu serves a period of gardening leave.
Ashworth’s stock has undoubtedly dropped following his five-month stint at Old Trafford, during which time the club renewed Ten Hag’s deal before then sacking him and replacing him with Ruben Amorim. Ashworth is reported to have been against appointing the Portuguese, preferring instead a British manager such as Gareth Southgate or Eddie Howe.
His previous work at the Football Association, as well as West Brom, Brighton and Newcastle, mean his reputation is not entirely in the dirt, however.
Garlick could be key ingredient in search
He also has an ally at Arsenal in the club’s managing director Richard Garlick.
Ashworth and Garlick worked together at West Brom and reportedly had a close relationship.
Garlick will work with assistant technical director Jason Ayto in the January transfer window, although Arsenal are not expected to be busy.
Garlick, head coach Mikel Arteta, board member Tim Lewis and co-chair Josh Kroenke are reported to be among those that will appoint the new sporting director.