Ryan Giggs, 51, steps down from Salford City job as Man Utd legend targets new manager role

Ryan Giggs, 51, steps down from Salford City job as Man Utd legend targets new manager role

Ryan Giggs, a name synonymous with Manchester United's unparalleled success under Sir Alex Ferguson, has officially stepped away from his role at Salford City. This move signals a clear ambition: a return to the demanding yet rewarding world of football management.

Giggs's involvement with Salford City, a club partially owned by his former "Class of '92" teammates, saw him initially serve as Director of Football. He further extended his support by assisting manager Karl Robinson on matchdays, demonstrating a commitment to the club's progress and a continued passion for the game at ground level.

The parting of ways with Salford City comes after a period where Giggs had taken a less prominent role in the club's daily operations. This strategic withdrawal aligns perfectly with his stated desire to once again take the reins as a manager, a position that allows him to directly influence team strategy and player development.

Prior to his involvement with Salford City, Giggs held the prestigious position of manager for the Welsh national team. He successfully guided Wales to qualification for Euro 2020, a significant achievement that underscored his managerial capabilities on the international stage.

However, his tenure with Wales was prematurely cut short following his arrest in November 2020 on suspicion of assault. These allegations led to a complex legal battle, ultimately overshadowing his promising career trajectory.

The subsequent trial resulted in the jury's failure to reach a verdict on the assault charges, as well as related charges of coercive or controlling behavior. This legal stalemate left Giggs's reputation tarnished, despite the lack of a definitive conviction.

The case against Giggs ultimately collapsed when his former partner, Kate Greville, reportedly declined to provide further evidence. This development effectively brought the legal proceedings to an end, leaving many questions unanswered and casting a long shadow over his future prospects.

MORECAMBE, ENGLAND - APRIL 21: Salford City director of football Ryan Giggs looks on during the Sky Bet League Two match between Morecambe and Salford City at Mazuma Stadium on April 21, 2025 in Morecambe, England. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

Robert Page subsequently replaced Giggs as the manager of the Welsh national team. Giggs later expressed his deep disappointment at missing the opportunity to lead the Dragons at the delayed Euro 2020 tournament, acknowledging the emotional toll of being sidelined during such a significant event.

Despite the setbacks, Giggs's unwavering ambition to manage remains undeterred. As he stated earlier this year, his experience managing Wales ignited a passion for the role, and he is eager to return to the dugout and apply his tactical acumen and leadership skills once again.

The legendary winger, a record-breaking 13-time Premier League champion under the guidance of Sir Alex Ferguson, possesses a wealth of experience and knowledge that he believes can be translated into managerial success. His years playing at the highest level provide him with a unique perspective on the game, allowing him to connect with players and inspire them to reach their full potential.

The landscape at Salford City has also undergone significant changes recently. David Beckham and Gary Neville, both fellow members of the famed "Class of '92," completed a takeover of the club, acquiring the shares previously held by Giggs, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes, and Phil Neville. This consolidation of ownership marks a new chapter for Salford City, with Beckham and Neville at the helm.

Adding to the complexities of Giggs's narrative is his continued absence from the Premier League Hall of Fame. Despite his unparalleled success and numerous titles, he has yet to receive this prestigious recognition. This omission has sparked debate among fans and pundits alike, raising questions about the criteria used for selection.

The Premier League recently acknowledged concerns surrounding the voting system for the Hall of Fame and announced plans to implement changes in the future. The revised system will reportedly shift the final decision-making power from fan votes to existing Hall of Fame members, potentially altering the selection process for future inductees.

Among the nominees for the Premier League Hall of Fame this year were several of Giggs's former Manchester United teammates, including Gary Neville, Patrice Evra, Michael Carrick, and Teddy Sheringham. This recognition of his contemporaries further highlights Giggs's absence from the list and intensifies the debate surrounding his potential inclusion.

SALFORD, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04: Salford City coach Ryan Giggs during the EFL League Two match between Salford City and Bromley at the Peninsula Stadium on February 04, 2025 in Salford, England. (Photo by James Gill - Danehouse/Getty Images)

While Giggs's playing career is undeniably etched in footballing history, his post-playing career has been marked by both triumphs and tribulations. His managerial aspirations remain strong, but he faces the challenge of rebuilding his reputation and regaining the trust of clubs and fans alike.

His experience at Salford City, though not a traditional managerial role, provided him with valuable insights into the inner workings of a football club and allowed him to stay connected to the game he loves. This experience, coupled with his previous managerial stint with Wales, positions him as a viable candidate for future managerial opportunities.

The footballing world now awaits to see where Giggs's managerial ambitions will lead him. Will he find a club willing to offer him a chance to prove himself once again? Or will he continue to navigate the complexities of his personal and professional life, seeking to rebuild his legacy and return to the forefront of the beautiful game?

The answer to this question remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: Ryan Giggs's passion for football remains undiminished. He is determined to prove himself as a manager and to contribute to the sport that has defined his life. Only time will tell if he will achieve his goals and once again grace the touchline as a respected and successful leader.

The story of Ryan Giggs is a complex and multifaceted one, filled with both extraordinary achievements and significant challenges. His journey serves as a reminder that even the most celebrated figures are not immune to adversity and that redemption is always a possibility.

As he embarks on this new chapter, Giggs carries the weight of his past but also the hope for a brighter future. The footballing world will be watching closely to see if he can overcome the obstacles and fulfill his managerial potential.

Ultimately, Ryan Giggs's legacy will be defined not only by his accomplishments on the pitch but also by his ability to learn from his mistakes and to contribute to the game in a positive and meaningful way.

The next steps in his career will undoubtedly be crucial in shaping his long-term reputation and solidifying his place in footballing history.