Ryan Giggs has confirmed he will be stepping down from his position as Wales manager with immediate effect.
The Welshman has confirmed his decision after talks with the FAW and in order to not 'affect, destabilise or jeopardise’ the Dragons’ preparation for their first World Cup since 1958 later this year. He had temporarily removed himself from the role after being charged with assaulting his ex-girlfriend - although he firmly denies the allegations and is determined to clear his name.
However the date of his trial has been pushed back until August and Giggs feels his ongoing legal battle would be an unnecessary distraction in the build-up to the World Cup in Qatar this winter. Giggs remains a close friend of Robert Page, who has filled the void after he stepped down.
The statement reads: “After much consideration, I am standing down from my position as manager of the Wales men’s national team with immediate effect.
“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.
“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.”
He continued: “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.
“I would like to thank the chief executive Noel Mooney, his predecessor Jonathan Ford, the board of the FAW, plus the many people behind the scenes who work tirelessly to help our national team and for the support they have given me during this difficult time in my personal life.
“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.”
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