There is ‘real fury’ behind the scenes at Newcastle United right now, and it is not related to Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
While the outcome and performance were disappointing, the true outrage stems from what has occurred behind the scenes at St James’ Park.
Newcastle United’s sporting director Dan Ashworth is expected to leave the club after being placed on gardening leave due to interest from Manchester United.
The 52-year-old will take over at Old Trafford, however when that happens remains to be known. As things stand, Manchester United will have to pay a large compensation package to sign Ashworth, maybe up to £20 million.
If not, Ashworth will be on gardening leave until early 2026. Newcastle are not going to roll over and give Manchester United an easy ride, and the Athletic’s George Caulkin has outlined why the Magpies are dissatisfied with the Red Devils’ approach – or lack thereof.
The 52-year-old will take over at Old Trafford, however when that happens remains to be known. As things stand, Manchester United will have to pay a large compensation package to sign Ashworth, maybe up to £20 million.
Newcastle are angry about Manchester United approach
Caulkin discussed the atmosphere behind the scenes at Newcastle United on the latest episode of Pod On The Tyne, following Man United’s decision to let the Ashworth situation play out publicly.
“There is genuine outrage at Newcastle regarding the way this has…I mean, everything is fair in love and war, but it’s been a very public approach, or romance without an official approach,” he explained.
“It has been lingering for months. I don’t think Ashworth handled himself well in this situation. I don’t believe he comes out of this well. Only acknowledging that he had contact as of last week and then informing the club that he wishes to quit. It’s early in his tenure at Newcastle, and, while there have been issues behind the scenes, I don’t think it’s been pleasant for either side, and I don’t think he comes out of this well.”
Newcastle must push for big compensation
Manchester United’s interest in Dan Ashworth has become widely public. It’s been going on for several months.
But this scenario came to reality this week, and it has culminated in Ashworth being on gardening leave after informing the club that he wishes to depart.
However, the issue is how Manchester United handled this. They didn’t make an official approach to Ashworth until February 19th. The entire world was aware of what was going on by that point, thanks to the media coverage.
Man United’s performance is really awful, and Newcastle will be eager to receive as much compensation as possible. The Toon owners must maintain their composure and treat Manchester United with the same respect they have received.
You’ve told the media how much you want Ashworth, how enthusiastic he is, and how talented he is; now put your money where your mouth is.
