Ryan Giggs resigns as Wales manager

Ryan Giggs is no longer Wales manager. « After careful consideration, I am stepping down as manager of the Wales men’s national team with immediate effect.“said the former Manchester United player, 48, accused of domestic violence.It has been an honor and a privilege to lead my country, but it is better for the Welsh FA, the coaching staff and the players to prepare for the World Cup with certainty, clarification and without speculation around the situation of their head coach“, he indicated.

The former Manchester United winger was arrested in November 2020 after a violent argument with his partner, Kate Greville and placed under judicial supervision, accused of behavior of control and bodily violence against his partner and assault on the sister of the latter. « I do not want the country’s preparations for the World Cup to be affected, destabilized or endangered in any way by the continued interest around this matter.“, added Giggs.

« I intend to resume my managerial career at a later date and look forward to watching our national team alongside you in the stands“, he clarified.

Giggs was appointed Wales manager in January 2018, helping the team qualify for Euro 2020. As a player, he won 13 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues with Manchester United. He began his coaching career at Old Trafford, taking over as temporary manager at the end of the 2013/14 season after David Moyes was fired, before working as Louis van Gaal’s assistant for two years.

The Football Association of Wales (FAW) responded to his resignation by saying in a statement that « of his gratitude to Ryan Giggs for his tenure as manager of the Cymru Men’s National Team and appreciates the decision he has made, which is in the best interests of Welsh football« .

(With AFP)