By Mark Weasley
It might seem that the Neville dynasty will continue at Manchester United.
After Gary and Phil Neville were associated with us for a combined 35 years and the latter’s son has taken a small step closer to adding his name to that list.
16-year-old Harvey Neville has been signed from Valencia by Manchester United in a deal to join the club’s academy, where he will continue his football development.
Phil Neville, who played 386 times for United in a successful playing career took to Instagram to announce the news with his son sighing a contract on his 16th birthday. Both senior Nevilles were part of the Class of ’92 that dominated English football and capped it off by winning the Treble in 1999. Phil wrote on Instagram that “Proud of you Harvey Neville. Go follow your dreams!”
Harvey also took to Instagram to share the news, posting a picture of himself signing his contract.
He wrote: “I am very proud and excited to have signed for the club I have supported my whole life.” Life for young players where their fathers are icons might be challenging and it’s important we don’t put too much pressure on him while he is still developing, but the youngster has a closely knit family that will help guide him in the right direction.
He is a midfielder that has been dubbed, fairly or not, the new David Beckham, due to his setpiece prowess and ability to hit the ball. He was on the books of United as youngster before making the move, ironically, to Manchester City. He left City in 2015 where he made the move to Valencia, when his father was made assistant at the club, but now he is back home. Welcome to the club, Harvey!
