Photo: Ryan Giggs (Getty Images)
The player that was voted the Best Player of the Premier League era has called time on his days as a player. Manchester United and Welsh legend Ryan Giggs has finally retired from football at the age of 40 years. The Welshman will now take up the role of assistant manager at Old Trafford to newly appointed boss Louis van Gaal.
Giggs was appointed interim manager after the sacking of David Moyes and was in charge of the club for four games. He had said that at the end he would think about what he wants to do because if he feels like he has the energy and desire to contribute as a player for another year he would continue on as a player. He has now decided to hang up his boots and move into management as he is seen as a future Manchester United manager.
In an open letter on the club’s website, the 40 year old expressed how grateful he was to play for the Red Devils and play with some of the best players. He also hailed Sir Alex Ferguson, the backroom staff and the fans for their love and support over the years.
He said, ‘Today is a fantastic day for Manchester United. Louis van Gaal is a great appointment and let me begin by telling you how delighted I am to be working with someone of his calibre. His credentials are second to none and I’m positive the club will thrive under his leadership over the coming years.’
‘I would also like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from professional football and embark upon a new and exciting chapter in my life, as assistant manager of Manchester United. I am immensely proud, honoured and fortunate to have represented the biggest club in the world 963 times and Wales 64 times.’
‘My dream was always to play for Manchester United, and although it saddens me to know I won’t be pulling on a United jersey again as a player, I have been lucky enough to have fulfilled that dream playing with some of the best players in the world, working under an incredible manager in Sir Alex Ferguson, and most of all, playing for the greatest fans in world football. I have always felt and appreciated your support.’
‘I want to also give a huge thanks to the backroom staff and support teams we have and have had at Manchester United over the years. I would not have achieved the success I have without your continuing dedication and commitment to creating the best environment to enable the players to thrive. I would not have won 34 trophies in my career without you. I would also like to say a special thanks to my friends and family for all your love and support.’
‘For me, today is a new chapter filled with many emotions – immense pride, sadness, but most of all, excitement towards the future. United fans I hope will share and echo my belief that the club, the management and owners, are doing everything they can to return this great club to where it belongs, and I hope to be there every step of the way. To the greatest fans in world football, thank you, I have loved every minute of playing for you and representing the biggest and best club in the world.’
He is no doubt the greatest player to put on the Man United shirt and has won everything at Old Trafford. He has 13 Premier League titles in his locker along with 4 FA Cups and 2 Champions League winners medal. He will be hoping to add more silverware to his impressive collection only this time it will be as a coach and not as a player at his beloved Manchester United.
Yashiema Love
Senior Contributor
GIVEMESPORT Writing Academy
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