Ryan Giggs has ended his 29-year association with Manchester United, leaving the coaching staff at the fallen Barclays Premier League power at the start of Jose Mourinho’s reign.
Giggs, who has been with United since he was 14, is the most decorated player in Premier League history and its record appearance-maker, having played 632 matches.
In terms of trophies, the former Wales star won an astonishing 13 Premier Leagues, four FA and League Cups and two Champions League titles.
He spent the last two seasons as assistant manager to Louis van Gaal, who was replaced by Mourinho this summer. He had taken temporary charge of the first team at the end of 2013/14 after the departure of David Moyes.
The 42-year-old feels the time has come to move on to best fulfil his coaching ambitions.
“After 29 seasons at Manchester United as a player and assistant manager, I know winning is in the DNA of this club – giving youth a chance, and playing attacking and exciting football,” read a statement by Giggs on manutd.com. “It’s healthy to have high expectations, it’s right to expect to win. Manchester United expects, deserves, nothing less.
“This is why it is a huge decision for me to step away from the club that has been my life since the age of 14. It has not been a decision that I have made lightly. I’ll take away so many special memories as well as a lifetime of experiences that will, I hope, serve me well in the future.
“However, the time feels right and, although I have no immediate plans to step into management, it is where I want to be.”
Executive vice-chairman, Ed Woodward said that Gigg’s place in the history of the club was assured.
“The experiences and discipline he developed at United will undoubtedly be a big help as he continues to learn his trade,” Woodward said.
“He has all the attributes to be a terrific manager in the future. Everyone at the club wishes him well in his new career. He will be missed but will always be welcome at Manchester United.”
