Departing Manchester United sporting director Dan Ashworth reportedly wanted Gareth Southgate to be appointed as the club’s next manager, rather than Ruben Amorim, Manchester Evening News reported.

Ashworth’s recommendation was ultimately overruled by the CEO, leading to his exit from the club after just five months, as all parties agreed he was not a suitable fit.

It has now come to light that Ashworth opposed the appointment of Amorim to replace Ten Hag and instead favored a return to Southgate, with whom he had collaborated at the FA from 2013 to 2018.

Amorim took over within days and arrived in Manchester last month after completing a three-match notice period at Sporting Lisbon.

Since his arrival, the club has experienced mixed results, drawing his first match against Ipswich and securing victories against Bodo/Glimt and Everton. However, he has faced challenges, suffering consecutive losses to Arsenal and Nottingham Forest in the Premier League.

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Reports indicated that Ashworth’s preference for Southgate, with whom he worked closely at the FA from 2013 to 2018, was rooted in a desire for continuity and familiarity.

Ashworth left his position on Sunday morning after just five months, with all parties concluding that he was not a suitable fit for the club.