Dan Ashworth, recently ousted from Manchester United after just five tumultuous months, has reportedly emerged as a candidate for Arsenal’s sporting director role.
The Gunners are looking for a seasoned figure to replace Edu, who recently left the club to oversee a multi-club project led by Nottingham Forest owner Evangelos Marinakis.
Ashworth’s departure from Manchester United came as a shock. Hired in July and hailed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe as “one of the top sporting directors in the world,” Ashworth’s tenure ended abruptly due to reported personality clashes with key figures at the club.
His exit was sealed after disagreements about the future direction of the team, including the hiring of new manager Ruben Amorim and the handling of Erik ten Hag’s departure.
Despite the dramatic fallout at Old Trafford, Arsenal seems undeterred.
Managing director Richard Garlick, who previously collaborated with Ashworth at West Bromwich Albion, is said to view him as a strong contender to oversee Arsenal’s sporting operations.
Ashworth’s track record, which includes pivotal roles at Brighton and the FA, remains a compelling reason for his inclusion on Arsenal’s shortlist.
Arsenal’s urgency to fill the role stems from Edu’s unexpected exit.
A cornerstone of the club’s rebuild alongside manager Mikel Arteta, Edu helped transform the Gunners into title contenders.
His departure has left a gap in leadership at a critical juncture in the season, prompting the club to prioritize securing a capable replacement.
