Saturday 2 July 2016 20:50, UK
Ryan Giggs has left Manchester United after 29 years with the club as a player and coach.
Giggs joined United in 1987 as a 14-year-old and went on to make more than 1,000 first-team appearances in all competitions after his debut in 1991 before becoming the club's assistant manager.
During his playing career, Giggs won the Premier League title on 13 occasions, four FA Cups, four League Cups, nine Community Shields, a pair of Champions League crowns, a UEFA Super Cup, an Intercontinental Cup and a FIFA Club World Cup.
He spent a brief spell as interim player-manager in 2014 after the dismissal of David Moyes and then took on an assistant manager role under Louis van Gaal after retiring from the playing ranks.
Sky Sports News HQ reported last month that Giggs was keen to become a manager in his own right and he confirmed that in an open letter to supporters on Saturday.
New United boss Jose Mourinho was prepared to offer Giggs a role in his new-look coaching staff but it would not have been as assistant, with Rui Faria set to take up that role.
United's executive vice-chairman Ed Woodward said: "Ryan's place in the history of Manchester United is assured.
"He has been a constant presence at the club since 1987 and, during his playing days, regularly delighted crowds; first with his dazzling wing play and later with his intelligence and ability to dictate a game.
"He has tackled his coaching and management responsibilities with similar rigour and diligence. The experiences and discipline he developed at United will undoubtedly be a big help as he continues to learn his trade.
"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."
