Gary Neville has been appointed head coach of Spanish side Valencia until the end of the season.
The former Manchester United and England defender is believed to have signed a short-term contract, and is also set to continue his coaching duties with England. Neville will be joining up with brother, former team-mate and current coach Phil at the Mestalla Stadium.
Football Reacts to Gary Neville Appointment
Neville, who retired from professional football in 2011, has been working as a television pundit and is on Roy Hodgson’s coaching staff for the England national team, but is now set to take his first managerial role.
The 40-year-old is one of the most decorated English footballers of all time, having won 20 trophies including eight Premier League titles and two Champions League crowns during his time at Manchester United. He also won 85 England caps.
Current England manager Roy Hodgson previously stated his liking for Neville as a coach, insisting that he could one day see the former right-back becoming a successful manager.
“He’ll become a very fine manager in time,” said Hodgson, speaking earlier this year.
“I think he’s a very good coach now. He’ll become an even better coach with experience. He’ll enjoy working with players. I think players will enjoy working with him.”
Since the news broke on Wednesday afternoon, Twitter erupted in typical fashion, with fellow former professionals and teammates voicing their opinions and well wishes.
Football Reacts to Gary Neville Appointment
How Twitter Reacted
Jamie Carragher:
Gutted! This reminds me of when Pegguy Arphexad left for Coventry.
https://t.co/M535r7L2qo— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) December 2, 2015
Gary Lineker:
Breaking News: @GNev2 has been made head coach of Valencia. Fascinating appointment!
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) December 2, 2015
Thierry Henry:
https://twitter.com/ThierryHenry/status/672042537218125824
Ian Wright:
https://twitter.com/IanWright0/status/672098340264411136
Harry Redknapp:
Great opportunity for @GNev2 to go over to Spain and manage Valencia. I think it’s been on the cards that him or Phil might take over there.
— Harry Redknapp (@Redknapp) December 2, 2015
Lee Dixon:
Just got to get Tracey as offensive coach for a hat trick of Nevilles!
Interesting appointment. Vale… https://t.co/od6CCB9tTn— Lee Dixon 💙🇺🇦 (@LeeDixon2) December 2, 2015
Manchester United FC:
Good luck to Gary and Phil Neville for the rest of the season with Valencia! pic.twitter.com/knb6wd2xAg
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 2, 2015
Neville himself has since expressed his delight at becoming the new manager of Valencia, saying: “I am absolutely thrilled to be given this opportunity with Valencia. Valencia are a huge football club of immense standing and I know from my time as a player the passion and dedication of the Valencia fans.
“I am really looking forward to working with the club’s talented group of players and am excited about the challenge ahead.”
Valencia, who are still in contention to qualify from their Champions League group, have struggled domestically this season, winning just five from their last 11 matches.
Neville’s first game in charge is expected to be against Lyon in the Champions League next Wednesday.
“Main Photo”
