Manchester United are on the verge of naming Dan Ashworth as their new sporting director, after being close to agreeing on a deal with Newcastle United for his signature.
The 52-year-old, with a successful track record at Brighton & Hove Albion and Newcastle, is widely praised for his capabilities.
However, there are reservations from Roy Keane regarding Ashworth’s loyalty to a long-term project at United, as the former midfielder is uncertain whether the English football expert would stay committed to the Red Devils in the face of more attractive offers from clubs like Real Madrid or Barcelona.
What did Keane say about United’s idea to sign Ashworth this summer?
While talking to Stick to Football podcast, the former United star said:
“You’re talking about Dan Ashworth coming into Manchester United and being the best for the job, but he doesn’t seem to hang around for long.
“He was at Brighton for a few years, and he’s only been at Newcastle for a couple of seasons, so you have to look at that too.
“There’s no doubt he’s brilliant at his job, but who is to say he won’t leave in 18 months for Real Madrid or Barcelona?”
Following his retirement as a player, Ashworth continued his involvement in football by taking on the role of academy director at Peterborough United in 2000.
He also had a stint at Cambridge United before joining West Bromwich Albion in 2004.
Over the years, the 52-year-old held various positions at West Bromwich Albion before departing to assume the role of FA director of elite development in 2012.
Ashworth’s recent contributions to Brighton and Newcastle have garnered widespread praise, particularly for his success in signing top-performing players for both clubs in the Premier League.
What would Ashworth bring to the table at Old Trafford?
If Man United secures Ashworth’s services, they would be bringing on board one of the best professionals in the business.
There is optimism that the director may view United as the right club to establish long-term roots given his impressive track record.
This could also help Sir Jim Ratcliffe and his management to plan a better future for the club. The INEOS chief will be aiming to attract experienced figures to the theatre of dreams.
The fans would expect a lot of changes behind the doors, and they would be hopefully that this move could help the club to sign quality players in the transfer window this summer.
