Dan Ashworth makes stunning exit from Manchester United after five months

Dan Ashworth has left his position as Manchester United's sporting director after just five months in the role.

Ashworth officially began work at Old Trafford on July 1 but his arrival had been delayed by protracted negotiations with Newcastle, who made him serve a period of gardening leave.

Sir Jim Ratcliffe described Ashworth as one of "the top sporting directors in the world" when he joined, however, he has spectacularly left the club after just five months in his role.

Ashworth was expected to overhaul United's recruitment and usher in a new era following Ratcliffe's investment and his exit is a shock. Ashworth reported to CEO Omar Berrada during his time as sporting director and it's thought the the final decision to end his contract was mutual.

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Ashworth was involved in United's recruitment in the summer, which saw over £200million spent on Leny Yoro, Joshua Zirkzee, Manuel Ugarte, Matthijs De Ligt and Noussair Mazraou.

United's recruitment from the summer window has been criticised. Zirkzee has failed to hit the ground running and there are questions marks surrounding over other arrivals.

The decision to keep Erik ten Hag after a poor campaign was also contentious. The Dutchman was backed by club executives but Ashworth was quoted on his contract extension.

Ten Hag oversaw an eighth placed finish in the Premier League and recorded a minus goal difference. United contacted other managers but kept him after the FA Cup final.

Ashworth said on his appointment back in July: “This remains one of the biggest football clubs in the world, but that is not our measure of success; the