Ashworth’s Departure Deemed ‘Embarrassing’ for Manchester United

The development is regarded as an embarrassment for Manchester United. As recently as February, Ratcliffe had expressed his frustration concerning the delay in bringing Ashworth to Old Trafford, as Newcastle had demanded compensation. Ultimately, United paid £3 million for Ashworth, who subsequently spent an equivalent period on gardening leave as he did in his actual position at the club. The precise reasons for Ashworth’s exit have not been publicly clarified. Sources within the club indicate that the decision was difficult but was made collaboratively following a period of transition, with the new ownership still in the process of establishing the club’s optimal structure. Critics of Ratcliffe are expected to highlight the financial cost of this decision—along with the sacking of manager Ten Hag just months after receiving a contract extension, followed by the subsequent hiring of Amorim as head coach—as evidence of flawed strategic thinking. In total, the appointments of Amorim and Ashworth, and the dismissal of Ten Hag, have cost the club nearly £25 million. On Saturday, Ratcliffe was required to justify the increase in ticket prices to £66, without concessions, explaining that it was necessary to raise as much money as possible for investment in the first team.