Arsenal’s Arsene Wenger offers Man Utd legend Gary Neville advice but bemoans appointment

ARSENE WENGER has provided Manchester United hero Gary Neville with some comforting words amid his troubled start as Valencia manager.

 

Gary Neville has drawn three and lost three in his last six La Liga games in charge at Valencia

 

The Arsenal boss, who came up against Neville on many an occasion while he was at Old Trafford, spoke about the La Liga coach’s difficult situation.

Neville took over at Valencia back in December, with brother Phil named as his assistant, but he’s failed to win a La Liga match as yet.

As a result, speculation surrounding a return to the Mastella Stadium for Rafa Benitez has increased, following his dismissal as Real Madrid manager. 

The Spanish giants sit in the bottom half of the table and European qualification seems a long way off.

 

And the Copa Del Rey has offered little respite as Neville’s side suffered humiliation at the hands of Barcelona, despite reaching the semi-finals.

A 7-0 thrashing in the first leg at the Nou Camp has heaped more pressure on Neville, but Wenger is confident in the United legend’s ability to recover. 

When asked what advice he would give Neville, Wenger said: “Keep faith in what he is doing. He has not lost his knowledge overnight.” 

While the experienced Frenchman suggested Neville can turn things around, he indicated perhaps the job for England’s assistant manager came too big, too soon.

"I believe that most of the time the reputation of a big player gets you a big club early,” Wenger added.

"You gain a few years. You do not start at Fleetwood. When you are [Pep] Guardiola you start straight at Barcelona.

"When you are not a big name, you have first to battle. That is a disadvantage because you do not start as high. But, on the other hand, you learn your job.”