- Manchester United is still looking to appoint a new sporting director
- Dan Ashworth lasted only five months before being dismissed by Jim Ratcliffe
- Reports suggested Ashworth’s duties would be split among senior executives
- Mikel González of Athletic Bilbao has emerged as a candidate for the role
- Athletic Bilbao is confident González will honour his contract until 2026
Key Takeaways:
Manchester United still intends to appoint a new sporting director after the failed attempt with Dan Ashworth. He was the first person to hold such a position in the club’s history but lasted only five months before Sir Jim Ratcliffe, dissatisfied with his work, dismissed him. This came despite United previously paying Newcastle a £5 million compensation fee for his services.
🚨 Manchester United are interested in Athletic Bilbao sporting director Mikel González.
(via @plazacasals) pic.twitter.com/qxQUXaN6Ga
— United Zone (@ManUnitedZone_) February 10, 2025
Shortly after, reports in the British media suggested that Ratcliffe and Ineos had abandoned the idea of appointing a new sporting director, with Ashworth’s responsibilities instead being distributed among Sir Dave Brailsford, Ratcliffe’s right-hand man, CEO Omar Berrada, and technical director Jason Wilcox. However, El Chiringuito claims that the 20-time English champions are interested in appointing Athletic Bilbao’s sporting director, Mikel González, to the role.
The 37-year-old Spaniard is under contract with the Basque club until 2026, and sources indicate that Athletic Bilbao is confident he will honour his deal, meaning they are currently not concerned about Manchester United’s interest.
Since joining the club, González has brought in key players such as Iñigo Ruiz de Galarreta, Andoni Gorosabel, and Gorka Guruzeta, all signed as free agents. Additionally, Álvaro Djaló was acquired from Braga for €15 million.