Ben Foster’s Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada theory after experience with former Man Utd figure

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Kickjolly · AI-written · automatically reviewed · United In Focus ↗

Ben Foster has commented on Manchester United's chief executive officer Omar Berrada and director of football Jason Wilcox, drawing from his experience working under Dan Ashworth, who was let go by the club in December 2024 after just five months. According to United In Focus, Foster believes Ashworth may have been dismissed because he pointed out problems at United, potentially rubbing Berrada and Wilcox the wrong way. Foster worked under Ashworth at West Brom.

Foster's theory is based on his observation that Ashworth was criticized after his departure, but has since moved on to become the first chief football officer for the Football Association. United initially paid £2m-£3m to secure Ashworth from Newcastle, but the decision to let him go was reportedly 'difficult' for Sir Jim Ratcliffe, who had been keen to bring him to Old Trafford.

Foster speculated that Ashworth's exit might have been due to Berrada and Wilcox viewing him as a threat after he pointed out issues at the club. He suggested that they might have paired up to get rid of Ashworth, allowing them to continue with their existing approach. Wilcox later moved on from sporting director to director of football in 2025, replacing Sir David Brailsford.