Manchester United’s ambitions for a return to the pinnacle of English football have taken another turn following the departure of sporting director Dan Ashworth, just five months after his appointment.
With Ashworth gone, former British Cycling chief Sir Dave Brailsford and technical director Jason Wilcox have assumed responsibility for shaping the club’s sporting performance, according to The Times.
As the director of sport for INEOS, Brailsford has been a key figure at Old Trafford since the company secured a minority stake in the club. His influence has extended beyond mere strategy, helping to craft a long-term vision designed to restore United’s dominance in domestic and European competitions.
Central to this effort is a structured approach known as ‘Mission 21’—a project developed with input from James Morton, a professor of exercise metabolism at Liverpool John Moores University.
This initiative aims to optimize player performance and overall club development, with an equivalent plan, ‘Mission 1,’ in place to help the women’s team chase their first-ever Women’s Super League title.
While Brailsford and Wilcox work on revitalizing United’s sporting fortunes, the club is also weighing significant infrastructural decisions. Plans are being considered to either renovate Old Trafford or construct an entirely new stadium, with a final decision expected by the summer.
Meanwhile, on the pitch, Manchester United’s quest for silverware continues. Though the club’s wait for a Premier League title has now stretched to nearly 12 years, there remains hope of securing domestic success. Manager Ruben Amorim’s side is looking to defend their FA Cup crown, with a crucial fourth-round clash against Leicester City set for Friday.