Following a complicated stint at Inter Miami, Phil Neville will return to Major League Soccer for the 2024 season. The English coach was hired by the Portland Timbers as the team aims to return to the playoffs. The Oregon franchise had dismissed Giovanni Savarese in August after a poor campaign that saw them finish 10th position in the West.
In his new team, the former Manchester United player will find two Brazilian players. Both winger Antony and midfielder Evander are under contract for the upcoming year, so it will be interesting to see how the managerial change affects their performances.
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Evander and Antony can be useful for Neville
Neville faces a significant challenge, as the Western Conference has become extremely competitive. Therefore, the two Brazilians in his squad can be valuable assets to get the team back on track in 2024. Evander, 25, had a remarkable season despite the team’s struggles.
EVANDER WITH A STUNNER 🔥
A sensational turn of events in Seattle. pic.twitter.com/nYb4iD2LcD
— Major League Soccer (@MLS) September 3, 2023
In his first year in the league after leaving Midtjylland for €9.5 million, the former Vasco da Gama player contributed with nine goals and four assists in 27 MLS matches. He also scored twice in as many Leagues Cup matches. Therefore, Neville will find in the Rio de Janeiro-born player a midfielder who can score and make the difference.
Coming soon to Soccer City ⚡️
Welcome, Antony! pic.twitter.com/BIR0mApgc1
— Portland Timbers (@TimbersFC) August 2, 2023
Antony, on the other hand, has spent less time in Portland. The former Corinthians player joined the Timbers in August, coming from Arouca in Portugal, and scored one goal in nine appearances (only three as a starter). At 22 years old, he can still offer a lot to the club.
Samba Gold 2023: Voting open!
Voting for the Samba Gold Award 2023 is now open. Choose your favorite in the men’s, women’s and under-20 categories!
