Manchester United minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has opened up about the departure of Dan Ashworth after just five months and admitted that extending Erik ten Hag’s contract was a mistake.
Ashworth left Old Trafford in December 2024, despite being a key part of United’s long-term strategy. Speaking to The Telegraph, Ratcliffe cited a lack of “chemistry” as the reason behind the decision, admitting that it was “our fault” but refraining from further elaboration.
Regarding Erik ten Hag’s contract extension, Ratcliffe explained that fan sentiment and the FA Cup triumph influenced the decision, but ultimately, it was an error.
“The Erik thing is slightly mitigating. He had just won a Cup final, the fans wanted him to stay. But they were both mistakes. We’re on a journey, and we won’t get every decision right.”
Manchester United in Crisis
United are currently 14th in the Premier League, facing widespread staff redundancies and growing fan protests against the club’s ownership. The failed pursuit of Ashworth from Newcastle, only to part ways shortly after, has added to the turmoil.
Meanwhile, Rúben Amorim’s United will look to turn things around when they face Real Sociedad in the Europa League Round of 16 on Thursday. The tie remains finely poised at 1-1 after the first leg in Spain.
