The headache is over
Gary Neville departs Valencia four months after being hired. They were in ninth place then and have fallen to 14th place just six points from relegation. With Neville in charge, Valencia achieved only 10 victories, losing eleven times, and drawing seven others. They crashed out of the Champions League in his debut, a fortnight later they made their Europa Cup exit, got thrashed 0-7 to Barcelona in the Copa Del Rey semi-finals.
In a statement issued by the club:
“Valencia have rescinded their contractual relationship with Gary Neville as coach of the first team today. After analysing carefully the sporting situation, the club decided to make this change in the best interests of Valencia Club de Fútbol with a view to the end of the current season.”
Pako Ayesteran, a long time understudy to Rafa Benitez from his successful days at Valencia and thereafter Liverpool will guide the Spanish club for the rest of the season. As for Neville, he’s got plenty to look forward to. Sky Sports will love to have him back where he earned plaudits for his spot on punditry and as England’s assistant manager will have his summer full at the Euros. Plus, he’s got more time to hang out with the Salford City working class. Brother Phil will continue as assistant manager to Ayesteran.
What’s a coach got to do to get fired? Eh, Arsene Wenger.