Arsenal have reportedly put Dan Ashworth on the shortlist for the sporting director position just days after Manchester United dumped him.
Ashworth left Old Trafford at the weekend, and although the club claimed in their statement that it was a mutual decision, it is believed there has been a breakdown in relations between the 53-year-old and members of Sir Jim Ratcliffe's Ineos group.
Ratcliffe, in particular, was reportedly angry that Ashworth distanced himself from the decision to give former United manager Erik ten Hag a new contract after the search for a replacement failed over the summer.
Dan Ashworth will leave his position as Manchester United sporting director by mutual agreement.#MUFC
– Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 8, 2024
ESPN reports Ashworth could quickly return to the game after being added to the list of candidates for the position vacated by Edu last month.
The former Arsenal and Brazil national team midfielder resigned in order to take up a supervisory role at clubs owned by Greek shipping tycoon Evangelos Marinakis, a group that includes Nottingham Forest, Olympiacos and Rio Ave.
There is no succession plan in place
Arsenal did not have a succession plan, according to ESPN, meaning they would have to begin the recruitment process while Edu takes a period of time off to garden.
Ashworth's shares undoubtedly declined following his five-month spell at Old Trafford, with the club renewing Ten Hag's contract before he was sacked and replaced by Ruben Amorim. Ashworth was reportedly against appointing the Portuguese, preferring instead a British coach such as Gareth Southgate or Eddie Howe.
However, his previous work at the Football Association, as well as West Bromwich, Brighton and Newcastle, means his reputation has not completely sunk.
Garlic can be a key ingredient in research
He also has an ally at Arsenal in the club's managing director Richard Garlick.
Ashworth and Garlick worked together at West Brom and are said to have a close relationship.
Garlick will work with assistant manager Jason Ato'o in the January transfer window, although Arsenal are not expected to be busy.
Garlick, head coach Mikel Arteta, board member Tim Lewis and co-chairman Josh Kroenke will reportedly be among those to appoint the new sporting director.
