Portland Timbers are facing criticism from their fans as they make moves to hire former Manchester United star Phil Neville as their new head coach.
Despite his experience, fans are not pleased with the decision, pointing out Neville’s track record as a coach and controversial social media comments he made over a decade ago.
Although close to securing the position, the former Inter Miami manager, Neville will have to win over the skeptical supporters.
In 2012, Neville made a tweet suggesting that women would be too occupied with household chores and parenting to notice his posts on the platform.
He wrote: “Women would be too “busy making breakfast/getting kids ready”.
The 46-year-old expressed regret for his messages in 2018 when he faced criticism after being appointed as the manager of the England women’s team.
During that time, Neville clarified that his comments did not truly reflect his character or beliefs.
However, the Timbers Army supporters’ club have highlighted their disappointment, asserting that Neville lacks a proven track record as a manager.
The Timbers Army supporters’ club have now voiced their anger as the club are in the process of negotiating a deal with Neville.
The Fans, in a group statement, said: “The Portland Timbers are currently rebuilding a team on the pitch in addition to their ongoing efforts to rebuild trust with their fans and the community.”
“We are deeply disappointed that the club has reportedly settled on a finalist for a head coach who has a history of sexist public statements that run counter to our ethos as a club, city, and supporters’ group, and who lacks a proven track record as a manager.”
“We urge the Timbers to reconsider this hire and re-evaluate other candidates before finalizing a contract.”
Phil Neville football career
Neville had a successful career as a player, with over 500 Premier League appearances and 59 England caps. He also achieved six Premier League winner’s medals and won the Champions League in 1999.
His managerial career
Despite his achievements as a footballer, his management career has been more challenging.
During his time with the England women’s team, he only won 54 percent of his 35 games in charge, which is not as impressive as his successor Sarina Weigman.
While coaching Inter Miami, Neville initially struggled but eventually led the team to the MLS Playoffs for the first time in their history. Unfortunately, they were eliminated in the first round.
Unfortunately, the 2023 season started poorly for Neville and the team, and they ended up having the worst record in the MLS by the time he was sacked by former United teammate and Miami owner David Beckham in June.
Following Neville’s departure, the renowned Barcelona and Argentina legend Messi, along with former Barcelona teammates Busquets and Alba, swiftly made their way to the club.
This marked a complete turnaround for the club, culminating in their historic victory in the Leagues Cup, being their inaugural triumph.
Shortly thereafter, Neville joined the coaching staff of the Canada men’s national team, led by Herdman, to take part in the CONCACAF Nations League final and the Gold Cup.
what’s next?
It remains uncertain if the recent online protests by Timbers fans will influence the club’s decision as Neville appears to be on track to reclaiming a managerial position in the near future.
