Former Everton captain Phil Neville has been sacked by Inter Miami CF following a run of 10 defeats in 15 games.
Their latest disappointment came at home to New York Red Bulls which left the club at the foot of the MLS Easter Conference. The 46-year-old was appointed as the Franchise's second manager in January 2021 and helped them reach the MLS Cup playoffs in 2022.
However, their nightmare start to the campaign has left the club, who is co-owned by Neville's former Manchester United teammate David Beckham, to make the decision to begin their search for the new head coach.
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"Sometimes in this game we have to make the toughest decisions," said Beckham. "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
"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."
On Twitter, the club confirmed the news revealing that Jason Kreis, the assistant manager, would leave with Javier Morales taking up the role of interim head coach. This Saturday, Everton icon Wayne Rooney's DC United travel to the DRV PNK Stadium.
Neville's time in America was the third managerial job of his career after having a caretaker role at Salford City before he was appointing England women's head coach where he was in charge for three years.
In a statement of his own, Neville - who made 242 appearances for the Blues - 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."
Neville's son Harvey plays for Inter Miami and came off the bench for the final 10 minutes of the New York Red Bulls defeat - but was booed by home fans every time he touched the ball.
Speaking after that game, but before his sacking was confirmed, Neville told the media: "In moments of real adversity, you learn a lot about yourself and the players you have, and I was incredibly proud of the young boy they were booing.
“It showed great courage. It hurt. It hurt. But I understand, and I think he understands. Do I agree with it? Probably not. But I’m his coach and I believe in young players.”
He added: “Hit me guys, I can handle that. I can take that. I’ve had it all my career.
“We have the best fans. I understand their frustration, the banners and all that because it comes with the territory being a professional football manager.
“I would say to the supporters, ‘Just come for me.’ Support the team and the young boys…don’t knock one of our own. Just come for me. If you’re unhappy, hit the manager. Don’t go for one of my young kids. That hurts and that’s personal.”
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