“I know he was very disappointed to leave the Wales job,” Dave Adams, the FAW’s chief football officer, shared with BBC Sport. Having worked alongside Ryan Giggs for a year, Adams added, “We’d qualified for the euros, which is a big achievement, but he never got the chance to go there with the team.”
The transition from player to coach is often a complex journey, especially for someone like Giggs, who tasted immense success on the pitch. Adams believes Giggs still carries that ambition.”I’m sure that was really difficult for him, and I would guess he still has that drive to feel the success as a head coach that he did as a player.”
returning to the managerial sphere isn’t straightforward. “When managers have been out of the game,you can look at going back as an assistant,but it has to be at a level of work that is respectful to you and your experience,” Adams noted. While former teammates might offer a natural fit, opportunities are scarce. “It is indeed such a competitive market, and young coaches are very prominent now, so there won’t be as many opportunities that would work for him.”
Still,Giggs’ legacy as a player could serve as a bridge back. “If you were an owner of a club,you still have that track record as a player of being part of a winning culture,a serial winner,someone who would demand high standards.” His time with Wales further proves his adaptability. “His track record with Wales shows how he managed a successful transition period, which owners are looking for in managers now,” Adams explained. “The game does move on very quickly, but when I last spoke to Ryan, he was spending a lot of his time watching games, so he is keeping on top of things, and I’m sure he would be able to adapt.”
However,Giggs’ potential return isn’t without controversy. In 2023, domestic abuse campaigners expressed their disappointment after the CPS decided not to pursue a retrial. Women’s Aid, a charity advocating for equality and safety, weighed in on Giggs’ more visible role at Salford City and the prospect of his coaching comeback. In a statement,they said,”It is disheartening to see alleged perpetrators of abuse being considered to return to elevated positions of influence and power.”
Football holds immense influence, shaping the minds of millions.”Football is a global sport followed passionately by millions of young boys and men, many of whom look up to players, managers, and directors as role models,” Women’s Aid continued.”Football clubs,and the sports industry,have a duty to uphold respect,equality,and safety for women and children.” The institution has worked with clubs to foster positive change and hopes others will follow suit. “women’s Aid has shown through collaboration with football clubs how impactful these partnerships can be – we hope more clubs will follow these examples and take the possibility to create real change.”
Giggs hasn’t publicly addressed the legal case, with BBC Sport confirming he wouldn’t comment at this stage. Yet, his passion for management remains. Speaking to BBC radio Manchester before an FA Cup match,Giggs revealed,”I had the stint as Wales manager and loved it. at the moment, I’m enjoying being at Salford as director of football and enjoy watching the team, happy where I am, but eventually, I would like to get back into management. On matchday, I still get as excited as ever, probably more so than ever.”
What qualities does Dave Adams believe make Ryan Giggs a strong candidate for future coaching roles?
Interview with Dave Adams, FAW’s Chief Football Officer, on Ryan giggs’ Coaching Career
By Archyde News
Archyde: Thank you for joining us today, Dave. Ryan Giggs’ departure from the Wales national team has been a topic of much discussion. Can you share your perspective on how he felt about leaving the role?
Dave Adams: Absolutely. Ryan was deeply disappointed to leave the Wales job. We had just qualified for the Euros, which was a meaningful achievement for the team and the country. It was a moment of pride for everyone involved,but sadly,Ryan never got the chance to lead the team at the tournament. That was a tough blow for him, and I know it weighed heavily on his mind.
Archyde: The transition from player to coach is often challenging, especially for someone with Giggs’ legendary playing career.How do you think he handled that shift?
Dave adams: It’s a complex journey, no doubt. Ryan had an extraordinary playing career, filled with success and accolades. Moving into coaching, especially at the international level, brings a different set of challenges.He was ambitious and eager to replicate his success as a player in his coaching career. I worked closely with him for a year, and it was clear that he had the drive and determination to succeed. But, as with any transition, there were hurdles to overcome.
Archyde: Do you believe Giggs still has the ambition to return to coaching at a high level?
Dave Adams: Without a doubt.Ryan is a competitor at heart. I’m sure the disappointment of not being able to lead Wales at the Euros was arduous for him, but I believe he still carries that fire to achieve success as a head coach. he’s someone who thrives on challenges,and I wouldn’t be surprised if he’s already planning his next steps in the coaching world.
Archyde: What qualities do you think make Giggs a strong candidate for future coaching roles?
Dave Adams: Ryan brings a wealth of experience, both as a player and a coach. His understanding of the game is second to none, and he has a unique ability to inspire players. He’s also someone who’s been through the highs and lows of football, which gives him a well-rounded perspective. Any team would benefit from his leadership and tactical knowledge.
Archyde: what message would you like to share with Ryan Giggs as he looks to the future?
Dave Adams: I’d say, “Keep believing in yourself, Ryan.” The football world knows your capabilities, and your time will come again. You’ve already achieved so much, and I have no doubt that you’ll find success in your next chapter.
Archyde: Thank you, Dave, for your insights. We wish Ryan Giggs all the best in his future endeavors.
End of Interview
This interview provides a glimpse into Ryan Giggs’ coaching journey, highlighting his resilience and ambition as he looks to carve out a successful career beyond the pitch. Stay tuned to Archyde for more updates on the world of football.
