Crystal Palace stand to benefit from Manchester United’s latest decision with Dan Ashworth now expected to join over Dougie Freedman.
Manchester United are in the midst of their takeover being ratified as they look to establish their structure. Sir Jim Ratcliffe is expected to completely overhaul the footballing structure upon his 25% stake being acquired.
This involves looking for a new sporting director, CEO etc… one name which has been mentioned since the summer has been Crystal Palace‘s director of football Dougie Freedman.
Freedman was being tipped to become the director of football at Old Trafford which would have been a massive blow for The Eagles given the Scot’s impact at Selhurst Park in recent years.
Playing a key role in acquiring elite talents like Ebere Eze and Michael Olise, he’d have been sorely missed had he departed. But now there’s been a boost for Palace as it’s emerged United are ‘increasingly likely’ to bring an alternative to Manchester.
Dougie Freedman to stay as Manchester United want Dan Ashworth
According to Mail Online, Newcastle’s Dan Ashworth is now, “Increasingly likelier to become football director at Manchester United. Ashworth will replace John Murtough as United’s football director once Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s 25% takeover is finally complete.”
Ashworth is a top addition for the Old Trafford outfit and has experience at various Premier League clubs including a starring role in the recruitment of Brighton.
Now at Newcastle, he has spearheaded the shift at St James’ which has seen them become Champions League qualifiers.
So while United will get a top-level new director of football, we are delighted as Palace get to retain Freedman.
Misery for Newcastle United is delight for Crystal Palace
This is a development which no doubt has Newcastle infuriated as it’s not a good look to lose a key figure to a direct rival. However, while Newcastle will be miserable, Palace will be overjoyed to see Freedman stay at Selhurst Park.
The primary reason is that Freedman’s talents are going to be needed at Palace with the potential departure of Roy Hodgson after an extended run of poor form – one win in 10 games which along with two draws, leaves Palace with five points in the last 10.
With Steve Cooper now available, something of a rebuild could be on the cards for Palace over the next few windows, which will require Freedman to be at his best.
