Gary Neville Discusses USMNT World Cup Hopes & Ronaldo's Future in MLS

Gary Neville's Next Frontier: Breaking into American Soccer Media

Since retiring from soccer in 2011, Gary Neville, the former right back for Manchester United, has remained active in the sport, transitioning into a successful career as a pundit and businessman. Now, he sets his sights on America, recognizing the growing influence of soccer in the U.S. and the upcoming World Cup in 2026.

The Challenge of Authenticity

Despite his success with the YouTube series The Overlap, which boasts over 1.25 million subscribers, Neville admits that creating content that resonates with an American audience poses its challenges. His cultural background as "a scouser and a manc" adds a layer of complexity in connecting authentically with U.S. viewers.

Launching It's Called Soccer

In response to these challenges, Neville has launched It's Called Soccer, a new venture aimed at carving a niche in the U.S. media landscape. He acknowledges the contrast between his background and that of co-hosts Jamie Carragher and Rebecca Lowe, who have a stronger connection to American soccer culture.

Expanding His Influence

While Neville might enjoy a level of anonymity amidst the U.S. landscape, his expertise in the global game is undeniable. He emphasizes that authenticity is crucial for his new project, focusing on being genuine and relatable to the audience. “Authenticity is the most important thing to me. In one way, it's authentic because we're being ourselves,” he states.

Opportune Timing for U.S. Soccer

With the recent appointment of Mauricio Pochettino as the manager of the U.S. Men's National Team (USMNT) and the current MLS playoffs heating up, Neville sees this as a pivotal time to engage with American soccer. The confluence of these events creates a prime opportunity for Neville to embed himself further into the U.S. soccer culture.

Insights from the World of Soccer

In a recent edition of Mic'd Up, a feature where sports analysts delve into soccer's landscape, Neville shared insights on various topics, including potential moves for soccer icons like Cristiano Ronaldo. "It wouldn't surprise me if he rocked up in New York or LA and finished his career in the U.S.," he noted, highlighting the lure that American clubs hold for international stars.

Conclusion

As Neville continues to navigate his path in American soccer media, he remains excited by the growing interest in the sport and its potential impact. His unique perspective and experience in the Premier League equip him to offer valuable insights into the future of soccer in the U.S.

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