Phil Neville

English association football player and manager (born 1977)

A graduate of The Elton High School in Bury, Phil Neville emerged from the Manchester United Academy to secure six Premier League titles and a Champions League victory. His professional trajectory spans two decades in English top-flight football, transitioning from a versatile defensive utility player into an international manager, sports commentator, and club co-owner.

Manchester United Tenure

Signing schoolboy forms in 1990, Neville became part of the group known as Fergie's Fledglings. He made his senior debut in January 1995 against Wrexham. Throughout his decade at Old Trafford, he played in defensive and midfield roles, winning three FA Cups and three FA Charity Shields. His pivotal cross in March 1996 set up Eric Cantona for a match-winning goal against Newcastle United.

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Transition to Everton

Neville joined Everton in 2005 for a reported fee exceeding £3 million. Appointed club captain in 2007, he became a central figure under manager David Moyes. His tenure included a notable 2008 incident at Anfield where he was assaulted by a spectator during a match. He remained with the club for eight years, contributing key penalties in FA Cup victories against Manchester United and Chelsea.

International and Coaching Career

Neville earned 59 caps for England between 1996 and 2007, participating in three European Championships. After obtaining a UEFA B Coaching Licence in 2012, he assisted Stuart Pearce with the England under-21 team. He later served as assistant manager at Valencia before being appointed head coach of the England women's team in 2018, leading the squad to fourth place at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup.

Fast facts

Questions readers ask

Did Phil Neville play for any club other than Manchester United and Everton?

No, his professional club career was split exclusively between Manchester United and Everton.

What major coaching roles has he held?

He served as head coach of the England women's team and assistant manager at Valencia, among other roles.

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