Gary Neville has shared a fresh reflection on his encounters with Rangers during his Manchester United playing days.
The former right-back, who racked up 600 appearances for United, once faced Rangers in the Champions League — an experience he hasn’t forgotten.
Ibrox is renowned for its electrifying European nights, and the atmosphere was once again intense as Rangers held Athletic Bilbao to a goalless draw in the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final.
Ahead of that clash, Neville spoke on The Overlap USA (10 April), where he lavished praise on the Rangers faithful, calling Ibrox one of the most unforgettable venues he’s ever played at.
Neville hails Ibrox atmosphere
Recalling his own Champions League visit to Ibrox, Neville said it ranked among his top footballing memories.
“Aside from Turkey and Galatasaray, Ibrox is the best atmosphere I’ve ever experienced at an away ground,” he said. “It’s absolutely incredible. I’ve never heard anything like the noise they create. It’s on another level.”
That night at Ibrox in 2003
Neville’s memorable appearance at Ibrox came in October 2003 during a Champions League group stage clash. Alex McLeish’s Rangers hosted Sir Alex Ferguson’s United, with stars like Mikel Arteta and Peter Lovenkrands lining up for the Scots, and Cristiano Ronaldo on the bench for the visitors.
Phil Neville netted the only goal as United edged a tight contest 1-0, despite Rangers arguably having the better of the game. The Scottish side would ultimately finish bottom of the group, while United progressed before losing to eventual winners Porto.
Despite the defeat for Rangers, the atmosphere clearly left a lasting impression on Neville, who has played almost 700 matches in his career. Few environments, he says, matched the intensity of Ibrox that night.
