INEOS seeks former Manchester City director to join Dan Ashworth
Manchester United’s restructuring is continuing at speed with the club working on a deal for Southampton Director of Football Jason Wilcox. The Red Devils want the former Manchester City academy director to work under Dan Ashworth, who they have approached to become the club’s first sporting director. INEOS, headed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, have wasted no time in making changes at Old Trafford, despite the fact the deal is yet to fully go through. Omar Berrada will join from City as the club’s new CEO, while an official approach is set to be made for Ashworth in the coming days. But INEOS want Wilcox, who left City for Southampton in January 2023, to take a role under Ashworth, according to the Athletic.
Ratcliffe and INEOS have wasted no time in getting down to business
The role would likely see Wilcox oversee the academy, given his work at the Etihad. The likes of Phil Foden, Cole Palmer, and Rico Lewis all came through City’s academy during Wilcox’s nine years at the Etihad. His scope at Southampton was far larger and he could expect to take a reduced role at Old Trafford in terms of duties. But his responsibilities would arguably be greater, given United’s long history of producing academy products.
Wilcox played for Blackburn as a player, while he also enjoyed stints with Blackpool and Leeds. United hope to appoint a head of recruitment in the coming weeks, who will also report into Ashworth – should he take the job as sporting director.
Reaction from Southampton manager Russell Martin
Speaking after reports of United’s interest broke, Southampton manager Russell Martin said losing Wilcox would be a big blow. ‘I hope it’s people putting two and two together and coming up with five,’ said Martin. ‘I’ve got a lot of respect for Jason and it’s no surprise someone would be interested in working with him. ‘He’s so open and honest. I hope he would have a chat with us first [if an offer is made]. I have nothing but good things to say about him.’
Conclusion
Manchester United’s restructuring efforts are gaining momentum as they work on a deal for Southampton’s Director of Football, Jason Wilcox. They want Wilcox to work under Dan Ashworth, who is being approached to become the club’s first sporting director. INEOS, led by Sir Jim Ratcliffe, is wasting no time in making changes at Old Trafford. Wilcox’s potential role would likely involve overseeing the academy, given his successful tenure at Manchester City. However, his responsibilities at United would arguably be greater, considering the club’s history of producing academy products. The move has sparked concern from Southampton manager Russell Martin, who hopes Wilcox will consider the impact of leaving the club. With the potential addition of Wilcox and Ashworth, Manchester United is taking significant steps towards restructuring and strengthening their football operations.