The Ex-Manchester United defender felt he was being shunned by the Spanish gaffer after the heavy loss
Former Valencia manager Gary Neville recently revealed details about a tense encounter with ex-Barcelona manager Luis Enrique during his turbulent time at the helm of Los Che. Despite his brilliant career as a Manchester United defender, Neville's transition to management was fraught with difficulties and, ultimately, failure.
Neville disgraced amidst poor Valencia form
Neville's selection as Valencia manager in December 2015 aroused concerns around the football world. With no top-tier managing experience, his entry at the Estadio Mestalla was welcomed with scepticism.
Scepticism quickly led to despair as Neville's stay proved disastrous, with only three La Liga victories out of 16 games before his departure in March 2016. His hardships in Spain prompted him to reevaluate his coaching career, freely admitting the problems he had.
Touchline embarrassment helps Neville decide to quit management
One of the defining moments of Neville's time in charge came during a Copa del Rey encounter against Barcelona, managed by Luis Enrique. In a humiliating 7-0 defeat, Neville found himself on the receiving end of not just a crushing loss, but also a perceived snub from Barcelona manager Luis Enrique.
“I remember with Luis Enrique, when Barcelona beat us 7-0 in the Copa del Rey. They were winning 5-0, he didn’t substitute Neymar, Messi or Suarez. At the end of the game, he walked straight past me and didn’t shake my hand," recalled Neville in frustration. "I felt he was sending a message that I didn’t belong."
Following his ill-fated spell at Valencia, Neville has never ventured into management again, choosing to remain a pundit with several media houses.
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