Giggs Steps Down As Wales Manager
Ryan Giggs has stepped down from his position as manager of the Wales national team.
Giggs was appointed Wales boss in January 2018 but stepped aside from the role in November 2020 after he was arrested for allegedly assaulting his ex-girlfriend.
The former Manchester United winger is due in court in August this year over the issue.
Rob Page has since been deputising as Wales manager in Giggs' absence and has led the country to their first FIFA World Cup in 64 years.
“It has been an honour and a privilege to manage my country, but it is only right that the Wales FA, the coaching staff and the players prepare for the tournament with certainty, clarification and without speculation around the position of their head coach,” said Giggs in a statement on Monday night.
“As has been well publicised, I have pleaded not guilty to the criminal accusations being heard at Manchester Crown Court. Whilst I am confident in our judicial process, I had hoped that the case would have been heard earlier to enable me to resume my managerial responsibilities. Through nobody’s fault the case has been delayed. I do not want the country’s preparations for the World Cup to be affected, destabilised or jeopardised in any way by the continued interest around this case.”
“I have been fortunate enough to have enjoyed some unforgettable moments during my three years in charge of the national team,” he added.
“I am proud of my record and will cherish those special times forever. I am sad that we cannot continue this journey together because I believe that this extraordinary group will make the country proud at our first World Cup since 1958. It is my intention to resume my managerial career at a later date and I look forward to watching our national team alongside you in the stands. Finally, I would like to wish the players, the staff and the supporters at the FAW every success at the World Cup and in the future.”
