The football world is in a bit of a spin with news that Gary Neville has been named Valencia head coach until the end of the season.
Phil Neville had been placed in temporary charge of first team affairs but it seems he'll now revert to his previous job as assistant coach. This time however, it will be with his older brother at the helm.
COMUNICADO OFICIAL | @GNev2 -> https://t.co/zFJoNcfDrT #BenvingutGaryNeville pic.twitter.com/bMtYn97CJU
— Valencia CF (@valenciacf) December 2, 2015
The connection between the Neville brothers and Valencia becomes clear when you take into account the fact that Valencia's billionaire owner Peter Lim is a partner with Gary and Phil as part of the Salford City ownership group.
And yes, this does mean that Neville will be leaving Sky's Monday Night Football coverage. He will however, continue in his role as England coach.
Valencia CF President Layhoon Chan said of the appointment;
We are delighted to have secured Gary so quickly. He combines top level coaching experience through his role as a senior coach with the England national team and a world-class playing career with England and Manchester United”
Throughout his career Gary has always shown great leadership both on and off the pitch. He is hugely respected in English football and it was his personal qualities which persuaded us that he was the right choice to lead Valencia until the end of the season.
Neville himself has also spoken about the appointment which has understandably come as a massive shock to many people.
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 take on Barcelona on Saturday but, somewhat fortuitously, Neville won't take charge of the team until Sunday.
