Former England and Manchester United defender Phil Neville has left his position as head coach of the Portland Timbers by mutual consent, following a disappointing start to the MLS season.

The club confirmed the decision on Monday after a run of poor results left the Timbers 13th in the 15-team Western Conference, with just four wins from 14 matches so far this campaign.

Neville, 49, spent three seasons in charge of the Portland side, but was unable to guide the team to the expected level of progress during his tenure.

His exit comes on the opening day of the MLS mid-season break for the World Cup, which is set to begin in the United States, Canada, and Mexico in just over two weeks.

Timbers general manager Ned Grabovoy said discussions had taken place over areas for improvement during the off-season, but admitted results had not met expectations.

“Ultimately, we have not seen the progress we needed, and most importantly, results have fallen well short of expectations,” Grabovoy stated.

Neville had previously managed Inter Miami for two years before being dismissed in June 2023, with the club bottom of the standings at the time.

He was appointed by Portland six months later but departs after an underwhelming spell in charge.

Portland Timbers owner Merritt Paulson paid tribute to Phil Neville following his departure, praising his leadership and professionalism during his time at the club.

“In my nearly two decades of owning and operating the Portland Timbers, there are very few people I have enjoyed working with more than Phil Neville,” Paulson said.

He added that Neville demonstrated strong leadership qualities and maintained a positive attitude even during difficult periods.

“Phil has outstanding leadership qualities and a boundless sense of positivity even in the face of adversity,” Paulson said. “I cannot thank Phil enough for his tireless dedication to this club.”

Neville guided the Timbers into the MLS playoffs in each of the past two seasons, although the team was eliminated in the first round on both occasions.

Reflecting on his departure, Neville acknowledged the club’s expectations were not met.

“I realise we’re in a results business, and the results haven’t been to the expectation of this football club,” he said.