Newcastle hire a new Sporting Director as 53-year old Dan Ashworth makes a move to Manchester United. The Magpies were excited with Ashworth’s arrival in 2022. However, Ashworth would favor a move away from the St. James Park amidst interest from Manchester United.
The 53-year old would express his desire to join United in February 2024. Although, Newcastle had a contract valid with Ashworth until 2026. Consequently, Newcastle would place Ashworth on a gardening leave until the end of the contract. Furthermore, the Red Devils would have to pay a compensation fee to secure an early move for the 53-year old.
INEOS want to rebuild United and restore the glory days at the Theatre of Dreams. They are making serious moves in the market. INEOS have already confirmed Ten Hag as their manager. Furthermore, they have also acquired Ashworth from Newcastle.
United are currently on course to rebuild their roster and compete for the top 4 next season!
Newcastle hire Paul Mitchell to replace Dan Ashworth!
Newcastle officially unveiled Paul Mitchell as their new Sporting Director replacing Dan Ashworth on 4th July 2024. Mitchell is a former football player. He began his youth player career with Wigan Athletic in 1999.
Subsequently, he would make an appearance for the first team in 2000. He would go on to make 64 appearances for Wigan. Followingly, he would play for Halifax Town, Swindon Town and Milton Keynes Dons on loan until 2005.
Thereafter, he would leave Wigan joining MK Dons on a permanent deal. He would go on to captain the team during the 2006/07 season. However, he would eventually struggle for gametime and made a loan move to Wrexham. He would encounter another loan spell at Barnet in 2008. Injuries plagued Mitchell over the course of his career.
Unfortunately, he would be incapable of recovery and was forced to retire in 2009 at the mere age of 27. However, he would immediately find a role as the Head of Recruitment at MK Dons in 2010. Subsequently, he would join Southampton on a similar role in 2012. Thereafter, he would join Tottenham Hotspur in 2014 to continue linking with Mauricio Pochettino since their Southampton days.
Mitchell would then join RB Leipzig in 2018. He would go on to become the Sporting Director of AS Monaco in 2020. Paul Mitchell has helped in securing key players for his team throughout his recruitment career. Mitchell is thrilled to join the Magpies and stated:
“I’ve seen the recent growth and ambition of the club. This, plus the amazing fan base, made the decision to join an easy one.
“I can’t wait to get started and help continue the organization’s growth and long-term competitiveness in all areas of elite football performance.”
Paul Mitchell: The man for the Magpies?
Mitchell had the attention of many top clubs with his recruiting exploits. Manchester United were also in the race for him in 2019. Newcastle fans believe that United’s acquisition of Ashworth is a boon for them. Especially, considering they were able to beat the Red Devils for Mitchell!
However, some reports suggest that it was the other way around! It was actually Paul Mitchell who wanted the Old Trafford job! Although, United would turn him down.
Furthermore, INEOS wanted to make the most of Newcastle’s financial issues and price away Ashworth for a ludicrous amount! INEOS would offer an ‘insulting’ £2 million compensation fee for Ashworth.
But, Newcastle Chairman was stern about his point that Ashworth would join United only on Newcastle’s terms! Eventually, INEOS would pay £10 million compensation fee for the 53-year old. It is certainly not what Newcastle wanted but way better than United’s prior valuation!
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