Revealed: Dan Ashworth’s deleted email to hide talks with Man Utd before he blamed Eddie Howe for Newcastle departure
### Dan Ashworth’s Secret Emails and the Manchester United Controversy
Dan Ashworth, Newcastle United’s former sporting director, is at the center of a storm involving clandestine emails, allegations against Eddie Howe, and a potential high-profile switch to Manchester United. Let’s dive into the details of this dramatic saga.
#### **Ashworth’s Hidden Communication with Manchester United**
In early February, Dan Ashworth reportedly reached out to Omar Berrada, Manchester United’s incoming chief executive, expressing his interest in the sporting director role at Old Trafford. Ashworth’s intent to jump ship was kept under wraps until an inadvertent mistake exposed his secret. He accidentally sent a blind copy of the email to his Newcastle account. Realizing the blunder, Ashworth swiftly deleted the email, but it was too late; Newcastle officials discovered the correspondence.
#### **Potential Premier League Investigation**
This discovery could trigger a Premier League investigation if Newcastle lodges a formal complaint. Such an inquiry would delve into whether Ashworth’s actions breached any contractual or league regulations, particularly around “tapping up”—the illegal approach to players or staff without the current employer’s consent.
#### **Ashworth’s Attempt to Shift the Blame**
In a surprising turn, Ashworth tried to place the blame for his exit on Newcastle’s head coach, Eddie Howe. He argued that Howe’s comments during a February 16 press conference made it untenable for him to continue at St. James’ Park. Howe had voiced concerns about Ashworth having access to Newcastle’s transfer plans and financial information amidst rumors of his potential move to Manchester United. However, this press conference occurred a week after Ashworth’s secret email, suggesting his claim was a strategic attempt to justify his departure rather than a genuine grievance.
#### **Newcastle’s Reaction and Ashworth’s Next Steps**
Following Howe’s press conference, Ashworth formally informed Newcastle of an offer from Manchester United. Subsequently, he was placed on gardening leave, a status Newcastle suggested would last until the end of 2025 unless they received an acceptable offer from United to release him early.
In response, Ashworth has initiated arbitration proceedings against Newcastle, asserting that he was unjustly dismissed. If the arbitration panel sides with Ashworth, it could expedite his move to Manchester United. On the other hand, if Newcastle’s position is upheld, Manchester United might be required to pay a substantial fee to secure his services before 2025.
#### **The Bigger Picture**
This unfolding drama highlights the high-stakes world of football management and the complex web of negotiations and legalities that underpin it. As the Premier League continues to monitor the situation, the outcome will have significant implications for all parties involved, particularly as Manchester United looks to strengthen its backroom staff and Newcastle aims to protect its interests.
Stay tuned as we watch this captivating narrative develop, potentially reshaping the management landscape in the Premier League.
