Manchester United and Dan Ashworth's next steps decided after bombshell exit

Manchester United's decision to part company with sporting director Dan Ashworth over the weekend has sent shockwaves through Old Trafford and beyond.

Ashworth was hailed at one of the best in the world at his job by Sir Jim Ratcliffe in February, when United's rather public courting of the then-Newcastle United official begun but, just five months after finally arriving at Old Trafford, he has now been dispensed with.

Neither United, who paid a large amount to free the 53-year-old from his Newcastle contract, nor Ashworth himself have come out of the saga looking good, and both will face questions over their next steps.

So, what is next for United and Ashworth? Writers from our Analytic 5 newsletter have had their say below. You can also sign up to Analytic 5 in order to get the latest football analysis by filling out the form below or clicking this link.

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Were you surprised at Ashworth's departure?

Ross Gregory: Given how long they waited after headhunting him, to then part company with Ashworth so soon into his tenure has to be seen as a shock of sorts. Ashworth’s strength is in building structures and philosophies behind the scenes, and is less strong in areas such as recruitment. United felt they needed a proper structure to run the club, and Ashworth has a close relationship with Sir Dave Brailsford, who remains a key player at the club. But, at a club looking to get back at the top tomorrow, perhaps Ashworth's philosophy doesn't align. He is more of a builder behind the scenes than a quick-fix merchant and it's clear his