John Murtough to leave football director role as Manchester United shake-up continues

John Murtough is stepping down as football director and leaving Manchester United.

Change is afoot at Old Trafford after Ineos took control of football operations earlier this year as part of Jim Ratcliffe's deal to become minority owners.

United are looking to bring in Newcastle sporting director Dan Ashworth and Southampton director of football Jason Wilcox as part of a football leadership team that Murtough will not be part of.

The club confirmed: "John Murtough is to step down from his position as Football Director of Manchester United and leave the club after almost 11 years in a variety of roles at Carrington."

Murtough's departure is understood to have been a mutual decision as United start anew.

United co-owner Ratcliffe said: "We want to thank John for his loyal service over many years, and for his support and integrity during this period of transition. He leaves with our best wishes for the future."

Joel Glazer, co-chairman of Manchester United, said: "After 11 years of tireless work for the club, John has mutually agreed with us that now is the right time to step aside and allow the new football leadership structure to be put in place.

"He will always be welcome back at Manchester United as a friend of the club."

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