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Brotherly love in Valencia

Gary Neville is set to become the new coach of Valencia FC. Image: Creative Commons.
Roar Rookie
2nd December, 2015
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Events at Valencia CF took a further turn for the bizarre as former Manchester United defender Gary Neville was announced as their new head coach, just days after his brother Phil was named as interim boss at the Mestalla.

Valencia, currently ninth in La Liga, parted company with manager Nuno Santo on Sunday night following a drop in form and significant disagreements with club owner Peter Lim.

Following Santo’s exit, his assitants Phil Neville and Salvador Gonzalez were placed in temporary charge of first team affairs, however following today’s announcement the goal posts have moved once more.

Gary, Phil’s senior by two years, enjoyed a glittering playing career alongside his brother at United, winning six domestic titles together.

However Gary’s move to Spain is the first time the pair will have worked together regularly since their time at Old Trafford.

Phil joined Valencia in July, and has received high praise from within the Spanish game for his speedy adaptation to both language and the role.

Gary, meanwhile has been operating a No.2 to Roy Hodgson with the England national team set up, a role he is to continue, and providing some pretty forthright views as part of his punditry work for Sky Sports.

Despite his managerial inexperience, Gary has a highly respected standing within European football and the move continues the business relationship already held both Neville brothers and Mr Lim.

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Alongside his role at Valencia, Lim is also a 50 per cent stakeholder in English non-league side Salford City, having bought the share from United Class of ’92, which includes the Neville brothers, along with fellow United legends Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt.

Valencia host league leaders Barcelona on Saturday, however that game will be under the stewardship of Phil Neville and Gonzalez.

Gary is expected to take charge of his first game next Wednesday, as Lyon travel to Valencia, with the Los Che requiring a win to avoid Champions League elimination.

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