Dan Ashworth explains why he is making U-Turn on controversial Manchester United stance

Dan Ashworth has explained why he is making a U-turn on the controversial stance Sir Jim Ratcliffe held on the Manchester United women’s team.

Since INEOS took charge at United, there have been many positive and important changes, but Sir Jim Ratcliffe has been criticised for his approach to the women’s team.

The United co-owner almost dismissed the team during a recent interview, and various acts – such as cancelling the end-of-season awards ceremony without their knowledge or moving them out of their new training facility – have led to dismayed supporters.

Dan Ashworth has since come into the club as the new sporting director and the 53-year-old is certainly keen to change this perception.

The sporting expert had key roles in helping the women’s teams in his previous jobs and has spoken on the importance of it in his first message to supporters.

“Delivering a successful women’s team and a thriving, productive Academy are both key objectives of my job, and I have a strong background in both areas,” he began, writing a column for the 2024/25 Manchester United yearbook.

“Women’s football was an important part of my remit in past roles with Newcastle United, Brighton & Hove Albion and the FA, and it will be the same at Manchester United.

“Women’s football is arguably the most exciting area of growth in the global game, and we want to be part of that. 
 
“Last season’s FA Cup win was a fantastic landmark as our first major women’s trophy, and now we want to build on that with Marc, his staff and the players.”

Further speaking on the training ground, he added: “There are also changes to the physical environment at Carrington as work commences on our season-long £50 million redevelopment of the training ground – evidence of our commitment to improving the club’s infrastructure. 
 
“This will require some adaptation this season, but all our teams – men’s, women’s and Academy – will maintain access to high-quality facilities, with the promise of a fully refreshed, world-class site once the project is completed.”

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