Summary
Harvey Neville plays as a versatile full-back in the MLS after having followed in his father and uncle's footsteps as a Manchester United academy graduate.
Transitioning to the MLS has allowed Neville to establish himself and get more playing time.
Harvey Neville recently moved to Phoenix Rising to further develop his career, aiming to excel in the USL.
The Neville family is one of English football’s most prominent dynasties. Gary Neville is still considered by many to be the greatest Premier League right-back of all time, and he won a gluttony of trophies while playing alongside his brother, Phil - who went on to turn his hand to management after retiring with the likes of England Women and Inter Miami.
But what about the latter’s son, Harvey? Like his seniors, he began his footballing journey at Manchester United’s academy (see below), joining in 2013 at just 10 years old. While many may not even realise he, too, pursued a career in football - in turn, perhaps suggesting a lack of success - Harvey has quietly charted his own path, away from the spotlight and the weight of Gary and Phil’s legacy.
Now 23 years old, it’s the perfect time to check in on how the youngster is faring in the unforgiving world of football, especially under the shadow of great expectations, with a father who won six Premier League titles, an FA Cup, and captained Everton.
EPL_46 pairs of brothers (1) Related
51 Pairs of Brothers Who Both Played in the Premier League
All 51 pairs of brothers who both played in the Premier League are named and ranked by their combined appearances.
The versatile full-back ditched Premier League promise for the MLS
Harvey Neville Inter Miami
Like his father and uncle, Harvey plays at full-back, but he can also operate in midfield. The teenager has demonstrated versatility with his ability to defend but also to fire a few crosses into the box to create the chances for his teammates. But other than a spell at the Carrington academy, his likeness to his family members pretty much stops there in terms of his playing career.
He had a brief spell in Valencia's academy before then having two years in Manchester City's academy. But between 2018 and 2021, he made 11 appearances for the Red Devils' Under-19 squad, scoring once and providing two assists, while much of the rest of his time in the academy came at lower age categories before he signed a professional contract in 2020. Watch his goal straight from the corner at Valencia below:
After somewhat stagnating following that landmark moment, Harvey opted for a fresh start across the pond, linking up with his father by signing for Fort Lauderdale CF (Inter Miami CF II) in USL League One in 2021. It was there that he truly began to find his footing, establishing himself as a regular starter with 42 appearances between his debut and 2023, proving that the States aren't just a retirement home for ageing European stars.
MLS's best ever players Related
The 20 Greatest MLS Players Of All Time (Ranked)
Now that Lionel Messi has joined Inter Miami, GIVEMESPORT ranks the 20 greatest players in MLS history
In January 2022, Neville was rewarded with a first-team contract at Inter Miami CF, becoming the third player promoted from Inter Miami II that season as his father looked to reshape the squad, and thus being able to call Lionel Messi his teammate for a short period of time. He made his competitive debut in the U.S. Open Cup and went on to make 11 MLS appearances through 2023, playing a part in the David Beckham-owned club's 2023 Leagues Cup triumph.
In search of more consistent minutes, Neville went out on loan - first to Loudoun United in the USL Championship, where he recorded two assists in seven games, then to Sacramento Republic FC, adding another 10 appearances in late 2024. Ahead of the 2024 MLS Next Pro season, he signed with Portland Timbers 2 (watch one of his assists below) - once again reuniting with Phil - and made 22 appearances in defence. But come the new year, he was on the move again.
Where Harvey Neville Plays Now
He cut ties with his father to sign for Phoenix Rising
Phil and Harvey Neville
After a young but very much blossoming career that currently looks like an unorthodox USA road trip, Harvey has since added another stop to his list by signing for Phoenix Rising in January this year. It's the first stop of his career where he will be without his father, which could make or break the youngster, though his experience elsewhere proves he has what it takes to continue forging a successful career in the MLS and USL.
“I’m thrilled to join Phoenix Rising, one of the best clubs in the USL. Getting the chance to learn and grow under Coach Pa was a big draw for me, and it’s clear the club is building something special here,” Neville told the club website.
“I’m eager to help the team chase trophies this season and prove myself as one of the best fullbacks in the league.”
Harvey Neville's Professional Career Statistics
Years
2018-2021
2021-2023
2022-2023
2023
2024
2024
2025-present
“We have players at right back, but Harvey brings valuable experience with his background. He’s been in the Manchester United academy, played in MLS, and competed in the USL, so he has the pedigree and versatility we’re looking for,” said Phoenix Rising Head Coach Pa-Modou Kah. “He’s played multiple positions, and I’m excited to work with him and see what he can contribute.”
So far, the 23-year-old has played six times for his new club, racking up 381 minutes. It might be a career far removed from the bright lights of the Premier League, but like the MLS and USL itself, he has slowly but surely carved out a name for himself, and it remains to be seen if he will ever return to Europe or whether the grass really is greener on the other side of the pond as he lives out his own American dream.
All statistics courtesy of Transfermarkt (correct as of 26/06/2025)