The Costly Departures of Erik ten Hag and Dan Ashworth
Manchester United has made some significant and expensive decisions in recent months, as highlighted by the latest financial report. The club has parted ways with former manager Erik ten Hag and sporting director Dan Ashworth, with the total compensation paid for these departures reflecting a staggering financial commitment. According to the financial figures for the final quarter of 2024, Erik ten Hag and his backroom staff received a substantial £10.4 million in compensation following their dismissal in October. Dan Ashworth, who held his position for a mere 159 days, was awarded £4.1 million, despite his brief tenure. These figures have sent shockwaves through the football world, emphasizing the club’s willingness to spend heavily, even in termination packages.
The Summer Decision and Its Aftermath
The decision to not sack Erik ten Hag in the summer has been a point of contention for many. Sir Jim Ratcliffe and Ineos, the new overseers of football operations at United, have come under significant criticism for this move. Reports suggest that the club was on the verge of dismissing Ten Hag during the summer, but a pivotal FA Cup victory over Manchester City, which he orchestrated, swayed the board’s opinion. This victory, however, could not mask the underlying issues within the team. As the new season began, Ten Hag’s performance quickly deteriorated. In the first nine Premier League matches, United managed only three wins, a result that was far from satisfactory for a club with such high expectations. Additionally, the team’s struggles in the Europa League further compounded the issues, leading to the club’s decision to act decisively in October. Along with Ten Hag, his assistants Rene Hake, Jelle ten Rouwelaar, and Pieter Morel were also let go, and club legend Ruud van Nistelrooy, who served as interim coach, also departed.
Dan Ashworth’s Brief and Contentious Tenure
Dan Ashworth’s exit after just five months has been equally perplexing and controversial. Ashworth, a respected figure in football management, was brought in to overhaul the club’s sporting operations. However, his tenure was marked by significant friction with the new leadership at United. Reports indicate that Ashworth was blamed for advocating the retention of Erik ten Hag in the summer, a decision that ultimately backfired. His suggestions for the club’s direction reportedly clashed with Ratcliffe’s vision, leading to an early and costly parting of ways. The total cost of hiring and firing Ashworth amounted to a shocking £9 million, raising questions about the club’s decision-making processes and the value they place on strategic direction.
A Long History of Financial Missteps
The recent compensation payments are just the latest in a series of financial misjudgments by Manchester United since Sir Alex Ferguson’s retirement in 2013. The club has spent nearly £60 million on managerial sackings and compensation over the past decade, a figure that underscores the ongoing challenges in maintaining stability and success. This pattern of costly managerial changes has not only drained the club’s resources but has also contributed to a sense of instability and uncertainty among players, staff, and fans. The financial toll of these decisions is a reminder of the club’s struggle to find a consistent and effective leadership model post-Ferguson.
Fan Backlash and Growing Frustration
The club’s spending habits have led to significant backlash from fans, who are increasingly disillusioned with the direction of the club. Ineos, under Sir Jim Ratcliffe, has already faced criticism for implementing a cost-cutting approach that has included staff layoffs and ticket price hikes. These moves have been seen as a stark departure from the club’s traditional commitment to its supporters and the wider community. The recent expensive firings of Ten Hag and Ashworth have only exacerbated the frustration among fans, who are tired of the club’s financial mismanagement and the lack of tangible progress on the pitch. The club’s financial decisions have become a lightning rod for criticism, with supporters demanding more transparency and accountability.
Moving Forward Amidst Turmoil
Despite the recent setbacks and financial missteps, Manchester United must now focus on rebuilding and finding a new direction. The club’s search for a new manager and sporting director will be crucial in shaping its future. Fans and stakeholders will be closely watching to see how the club navigates these changes and whether the new leadership can restore the stability and success that has been lacking in recent years. The challenge ahead is significant, as the club must not only address its on-field performance but also mend the relationship with its supporters. The hope is that the club can learn from these costly mistakes and move forward with a clearer and more sustainable vision.
