We can’t say we’re surprised.
And the former Manchester United defender Gary Neville should not be shocked either that the axe has fallen at Valencia.
The former, and soon to be current, Sky Sports pundit was sacked as manager of the La Liga club on Wednesday afternoon.
The England coach has struggled to adapt to life in the Spanish top flight and, despite a mini revival last month that saw him win three games in a row, the club have tumbled down the league standings, as well as suffering a humiliating cup loss to Barcelona.
Gary Neville's La Liga record at Valencia:
DDLDLDDLLWWLWLLL
Games: 16
Goals: 14
Conceded: 25
Clean sheets: 0 https://t.co/ObDFISbxdm— Squawka (@Squawka) March 30, 2016
Neville’s last game in charge was a 2-0 loss to Celta Vigo on March 20th and the club have announced that Pako Ayestarán is taking over until the end of the season.
His league record makes for grim reading, with just 10 wins (three in the league) out of his total of 28 games in charge.
However the former Manchester United full-back reacted in typically balanced fashion.
“I want to thank the Valencia Football Club, the fans, the coaching staff, workers and players,” Neville said.
“I would have liked to continue the work I started, but I understand that we are in a business that is based on the results and in 28 games-ten wins, seven draws and 11 defeats they have not been at the level that I demand that requires me and this club.”
The reaction has been swift, but not shocked
Gary Neville has lost his job with Valencia. Always looked a brutally difficult first job. Sure he'll bounce back in the stand or studio.
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) March 30, 2016
Well @GNev2 went from the comfort zone – took on a big job – didn't work out. Will still be a major influence in football in years to come
— Jan Aage Fjørtoft 🇳🇴 (@JanAageFjortoft) March 30, 2016
He’s just another statistic now
https://twitter.com/barcastuff/status/715204237651755010
