In a twist that underscores the unpredictable nature of modern sport, Dan Ashworth, the former Manchester United sporting director whose tenure at Old Trafford lasted just five tumultuous months, has resurfaced in an unlikely arena: cricket. The 53-year-old, once heralded as a transformative figure in football’s backroom landscape, has taken on a freelance consultancy role with Warwickshire County Cricket Club, marking a fascinating pivot in his storied career. For RedMancunian, we delve into Ashworth’s new chapter, the fallout from his United exit, and what this move means for both the man and the institutions involved.
A Brief but Costly Stint at United
Ashworth’s arrival at Manchester United in July 2023 was met with cautious optimism. Fresh from a successful spell at Newcastle United, where he played a key role in their resurgence under Saudi-backed ownership, the former FA technical director was seen as the architect United desperately needed. Yet, his time at Old Trafford unravelled with startling speed.
By December, Ashworth was gone, his departure framed as a “mutual agreement” but widely understood to be the result of irreconcilable differences with Sir Jim Ratcliffe and other key figures in the club’s hierarchy. Reports suggest clashes over Erik ten Hag’s future, transfer targets, and broader strategic direction left Ashworth isolated. His exit came at a significant cost—United shelled out over £4m in compensation to Newcastle and Ashworth himself, a stark reminder of the financial stakes in modern football’s boardroom battles.
“It was a marriage that never quite clicked,” observes a club insider. “Dan had his vision, but it didn’t align with where Ratcliffe and the new regime wanted to go.”
Cricket Calling: Ashworth’s Return to Warwickshire
Ashworth’s new role at Warwickshire County Cricket Club represents a return to familiar territory. Having joined the club’s audit committee in 2021, he brings a wealth of experience in high-performance environments to a sport increasingly influenced by football’s data-driven, multi-disciplinary approach.
According to The Times, Ashworth will advise on “a range of matters including high performance,” leveraging his expertise to enhance Warwickshire’s operations. Notably, he is not in the running for the club’s vacant performance director role, a position that reportedly offers a salary far below what Ashworth commanded in football.
“Dan’s involvement is about adding value where he can,” explains a source close to the cricketing side. “He’s not looking for a full-time role, but his insights could be invaluable as we look to build on recent successes.”
A Broader Trend: Football Meets Cricket
Ashworth’s move is emblematic of a growing crossover between football and cricket. From performance analytics to player welfare, the two sports are increasingly borrowing from each other’s playbooks. Warwickshire, home to Edgbaston—one of England’s most iconic cricket grounds—is no stranger to innovation, having previously collaborated with football clubs on shared training methodologies.
For Ashworth, this role offers a chance to diversify his portfolio while staying connected to elite sport. “It’s a smart move,” says a sports industry analyst. “Cricket is evolving rapidly, and Dan’s experience in football could help Warwickshire stay ahead of the curve.”
The United Fallout: Lessons Learned?
Ashworth’s abrupt exit from United raises questions about the club’s direction under Ratcliffe’s INEOS regime. While the British billionaire has implemented sweeping changes—from cost-cutting measures to a renewed focus on youth development—the Ashworth saga highlights the challenges of aligning vision and execution at a club as sprawling and scrutinised as United.
“Dan’s departure was a symptom of deeper issues,” argues a former United staffer. “There’s a lot of talent at the club, but also a lot of egos. Getting everyone on the same page is easier said than done.”
What’s Next for Ashworth—and United?
For Ashworth, the Warwickshire role is likely a stepping stone rather than a long-term commitment. With his reputation intact despite the United debacle, he remains a sought-after figure in football circles. A return to the Premier League, perhaps in a consultancy capacity, seems inevitable.
As for United, the focus shifts to the pitch. With Ruben Amorim at the helm, the Reds face Ipswich Town at Old Trafford on Wednesday, a chance to build momentum in a season that has already seen its fair share of drama.
Final Thoughts
Dan Ashworth’s journey from Old Trafford to Edgbaston is a reminder that in sport, as in life, reinvention is always possible. For United, his brief tenure serves as a cautionary tale about the perils of misaligned ambitions. For Warwickshire, his arrival signals an exciting new chapter in their pursuit of excellence.
As the cricketing season unfolds and United’s campaign continues, one thing is certain: Dan Ashworth’s story is far from over.
