Phil Neville has been sacked as manager of Inter Miami – who are co-owned by his former Manchester United and England teammate David Beckham.
It comes after the football club’s 1-0 defeat to New York Red Bulls – the team’s fourth successive loss – which left them bottom of the MLS Eastern Conference in the US.
Neville, who was appointed in January 2021 after his resignation as England Women boss, has paid the price for a poor run of form.
Things came to a head against New York Red Bulls on Wednesday, as Inter Miami fans held banners calling for the manager to stand down after 10 defeats in 15 games – and booed his 20-year-old son Harvey when he came on as a late substitute.
“Don’t knock one of our own, just come for me if you’re unhappy with the manager,” Neville said afterwards. “Don’t go for one of my boys, don’t go for one of my young kids, because that hurts, that’s personal.”
The former England teammates during a training session ahead of the 2006 World Cup
In a statement, Beckham paid tribute to Neville and said it was the right time to make the change.
“When we appointed Phil we knew he would give Inter Miami his all and I have watched him work incredibly hard and with real commitment towards the ambitions we set out for the club,” he said on the club’s official website.
“He and his family embraced Miami and he has devoted himself to the drive to bring success to the city and to our fans. Phil has made a real contribution to the culture of our club with his qualities as a leader and knowledge as a coach.
“Sometimes in this game we have to make the toughest decisions and sadly we feel the time is right to make a change. I want to personally thank Phil for his hard work, his passion for our club and for his integrity as a person.”
The ex-Manchester United teammates celebrating a goal at Old Trafford in February 2002
Neville spent three years as manager of England Women before taking up his first permanent role in the men’s game as Inter Miami head coach.
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The 46-year-old said: “I would like to thank the Inter Miami CF ownership group for their trust and making me a part of this project; the players and staff for their impressive commitment, dedication and hard work; and the fans for their unwavering support for the club since day one.
“I’m grateful to have played a part in the growth of this club and wish Inter Miami CF all the best in the future.”
The decision to remove Neville comes amid rumours Inter Miami could try to tempt Lionel Messi to the club, after it was announced the world cup winner is leaving Paris-Saint Germain this summer.