Shockwaves have been sent around Old Trafford after the departure of one of the club's top officials just five months into his role.
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United sporting director Dan Ashworth has left his position after a brief spell of just five months at the club.
Ashworth officially joined United on 1 July, following a five-month gardening leave from his previous role at Newcastle United.
His departure was confirmed in a meeting after the Red Devils' disappointing 3-2 home loss to Nottingham Forest on Saturday, according to multiple sources familiar with the situation.
The news of the 53-year-old's exit was first reported by The Athletic on Sunday. A United statement confirmed that the decision was made by "mutual agreement", adding: "We would like to thank Dan for his work and support during a transitional period for the club and wish him well for the future."
Ashworth was spotted walking through the press conference room alongside the club's chief operating officer, Collette Roche, after the Forest defeat. It is understood that he was heading to a meeting where his exit was finalised.
United's season has been far from smooth, with the club parting ways with manager Erik ten Hag in October after a poor start to the season, securing just three wins from their opening nine Premier League matches.
It was later revealed that the sacking of Ten Hag and his staff cost the club £10.4 million (R238.5 million), while paying the release clause for his replacement, Ruben Amorim, came to a further £11 million (R252.3 million).
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The defeat to Forest left United in 13th place in the Premier League, with just five wins from 15 matches.
