United confirmed on Sunday that they had parted ways with the 53-year-old, just a day after chief executive Omar Berrada informed him of the decision following their 3-2 home defeat to Nottingham Forest.
Ashworth’s stint at Old Trafford lasted only five months as part of the club’s revamped football hierarchy under the Ineos banner. Interestingly, this was the same length of time he spent on gardening leave at Newcastle United before joining United.
Arsenal may now be looking to benefit from United’s loss, with reports suggesting they are preparing a move for the highly regarded Ashworth. The Sun claims that Arsenal’s managing director, Richard Garlick, is leading the pursuit. Ashworth and Garlick previously worked together at West Bromwich Albion for three years before Ashworth moved on to the Football Association in 2013, and their strong relationship could help Arsenal attract him to north London following his brief United tenure.
Everton are also reportedly interested in Ashworth, especially as The Friedkin Group prepares for a takeover and a structural review that could lead to the appointment of a new chief executive and technical director.
