Dan Ashworth Reveals Ineos’ Fresh Stance on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United Future
In the face of a challenging start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, Manchester United‘s sporting director Dan Ashworth has publicly thrown his weight behind Erik ten Hag, reaffirming the club’s belief in the Dutchman’s ability to steer the Red Devils back to their former glory.
Erik ten Hag, who took charge of United after a successful spell with Ajax, has seen his side struggle in the early stages of the new season, with two losses in their first three games.
The most recent setback was a crushing 3-0 defeat at Old Trafford against Liverpool, a result that has intensified scrutiny on Ten Hag’s position at the helm of the club.
Over the summer, there were widespread reports that Ineos, Manchester United’s new majority stakeholder, was considering replacing Ten Hag, casting doubts over his future.
Despite this speculation, the club opted to extend his contract, signaling their commitment to the Dutch coach. However, the pressure remains palpable, and the need for improved results is undeniable.
In a recent Q&A session with the media, Dan Ashworth, who joined Manchester United in his capacity as sporting director just eight weeks ago, expressed his unwavering support for Ten Hag, emphasizing the collaborative efforts behind the scenes aimed at ensuring the team’s success.
“Very rarely do you go into a job as a sporting director and there’s no manager in place,” Ashworth shared, highlighting the continuity that has been crucial in their working relationship. “I’ve really enjoyed working with Erik for the last eight weeks.”
Ashworth further elaborated on his role, saying, “I see my job as to support him in every way I possibly can, whether that’s operationally, with recruitment, with medical, with psychology, or with training‑ground flow. It’s about taking as much of that off him to allow him to fully focus on the training pitch and the match tactical plan to deliver success for Manchester United.”
As Manchester United navigates the turbulent waters of the new season, Ashworth’s public backing of Ten Hag sends a clear message of stability and belief from within the club’s hierarchy.
With the eyes of the footballing world firmly fixed on Old Trafford, only time will tell if this support will translate into the on-pitch success that the Red Devils faithful so desperately crave.
Dan Ashworth Reveals Ineos’ Fresh Stance on Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United Future