Former Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth is in advanced discussions regarding a return to the Football Association (FA), following his controversial exit from United just five months into his tenure. At 54, Ashworth’s proposed role would once again see him tasked with overseeing technical operations for both the men’s and women’s national teams, including the much-anticipated redevelopment of St George’s Park, the training base for England’s teams.
After departing Old Trafford in December 2024, Ashworth has been linked to various roles but has predominantly been working with Warwickshire County Cricket Club in an advisory capacity. Prior to his time at Manchester United, he was significantly influential at the FA from 2012 to 2018, where he was regarded as a pivotal figure in the England men’s team reaching the semi-finals at the 2018 World Cup in Russia. Now, according to several reports, he is negotiating terms that would see him take charge of the FA’s ambitious “St George’s Park 2.0 project,” designed to enhance England's footballing future.
Reports initially suggested Ashworth’s appointment came after a drawn-out negotiation process, during which both Sir Jim Ratcliffe's ownership team and Manchester United’s board sought his talents following a successful stint at Newcastle and the substantial progress made during his time as director of elite development at the FA. However, the transition was less than smooth, with Ashworth being dismissed after a 3-2 defeat to Nottingham Forest early in his time at United, shortly after both parties reportedly fell out over various issues, including strategic decisions regarding manager Erik ten Hag.
In these discussions regarding his return to the FA, Ashworth's potential responsibilities would extend beyond just technical oversight. He would also be charged with developing homegrown coaches, a critical issue that has been brought to the forefront with only two English managers currently leading in the Premier League. This was outlined by FA chief executive Mark Bullingham, emphasizing the need for a strategic overhaul amidst concerns highlighted by Ashworth himself.
During his previous tenure at the FA, Ashworth effectively structured England's pathways for youth players, leading teams to success on the international stage. The Under-17s and Under-20s claimed world titles in 2017, while the Under-19s celebrated European success the same year. His late involvement helped steer Gareth Southgate's side to the semi-finals of the World Cup, a performance that revived national pride in English football.
If formalities conclude successfully, Ashworth’s return would help facilitate the progression of both men’s and women’s football within England, fostering an environment conducive to the growth of new talent. Despite the restructuring efforts at Manchester United that cost the club £4.1 million for hiring and subsequently firing Ashworth, the FA has so far opted not to disclose any financial implications if Ashworth does decide to resume duties with them.
Nevertheless, should Ashworth be reinstated at the FA, he would be positioned amidst notable upgrades proposed at St George’s Park, guided under the “St George’s Park 2.0 project”—a major refurbishment initiative that aims to modernize training facilities and enhance the infrastructure crucial for nurturing football talent in England.
As negotiations proceed, there are underlying apprehensions regarding the latest decision-makers within the FA. Indeed, previous coaching frameworks and managerial appointments—including the recent hiring of Thomas Tuchel as head coach—could be impacted by Ashworth's insights moving forward. Although these discussions are ongoing, the FA acknowledged they would not comment on the situation, a likely indication of the sensitive nature of these negotiations.
While Ashworth's interim role with Warwickshire has provided him with opportunities for continued involvement in performance strategies, the overarching focus remains on football, where his track record at the FA remains an appealing narrative for his potential return. In the ever-evolving landscape of English football, Ashworth's move back to the FA could reinvigorate both at the national and grassroots levels.
Manchester United, meanwhile, returns to action on April 1, 2025, as they prepare for a crucial encounter against Nottingham Forest, a game that represents both clubs’ quests for momentum amid pressing expectations this season.
