“Dan Ashworth was considering a completely different option to Ruben Amorim. I believe this alternative manager would have been the right choice for Manchester United” – Man United legend Paul Scholes confirms the former sporting director had plans to appoint a different candidate before his unexpected departure from Old Trafford. The revelation sheds light on Ashworth’s vision for the club and hints at why some believe a different managerial approach might have been better for the Red Devils’ current challenges.

Former Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth reportedly favored appointing an English manager, such as Gareth Southgate, over Ruben Amorim.

Ashworth’s sudden departure from Old Trafford has come as a surprise, especially since he had only joined the club five months ago after a successful stint at Newcastle. However, reports from talkSPORT suggest internal conflicts played a role in his exit, particularly disagreements over who should replace Erik ten Hag as manager.

Amorim ultimately secured the role following his impressive achievements at Sporting Lisbon, but Ashworth was said to have leaned towards the controversial idea of hiring former England boss Southgate.

Was Dan Ashworth the wrong fit for United?

While Ashworth had a strong track record in recruitment at Brighton and Newcastle, Manchester United might have been too big a challenge. Southgate, though successful with the England national team, lacks top-tier club management experience and is not known for his dynamic tactical approach, making Amorim the more progressive choice.

Amorim’s tenure hasn’t started smoothly, but given the transformational work he accomplished at Sporting, he deserves the time and support to succeed at Old Trafford.

If Ashworth wasn’t aligned with the vision for the club’s future, his departure might ultimately benefit both parties.