Ryan Giggs ends 29-year association with Manchester United

Ryan Giggs is leaving the only club he's ever known.

On Saturday, Manchester United announced that Giggs is to leave the Red Devils to pursue his desire to be a manager, ending a 29-year association with the club that started on his 14th birthday.

The definition of a one-club man, Giggs joined United's academy at the age of 14 and went on to tally 963 appearances for the Red Devils, more than anyone in the club's history. He turned professional in November 1990 at the age of 17, made his first-team debut only months later under Sir Alex Ferguson, and went on to become the most decorated player in the team's history over the course of 24 prolific seasons.

Giggs was appointed as United's assistant manager in May 2014, but Jose Mourinho reportedly intends on filling that role with Rui Faria, a longtime friend of the Special One. As the Guardian explains, it is believed the Welshman was offered a job within the Red Devils' youth set-up that was ultimately rejected.

"After 29 seasons at Manchester United as a player and assistant manager, I know winning is in the DNA of this club - giving youth a chance, and playing attacking and exciting football," Giggs said. "It's healthy to have high expectations, it's right to expect to win. Manchester United expects, deserves, nothing less.

"This is why it is a huge decision for me to step away from the club that has been my life since the age of 14. It has not been a decision that I have made lightly. I'll take away so many special memories as well as a lifetime of experiences that will, I hope, serve me well in the future.

"However, the time feels right and, although I have no immediate plans to step into management, it is where I want to be."

Giggs, linked with Swansea City last year when Garry Monk was sacked as the Welsh club's manager, was apparently disappointed at being overlooked by United when Mourinho was appointed, but he wished the Portuguese tactician nothing but the best while saying goodbye.

"I want to congratulate Jose Mourinho on his appointment as manager of the world's biggest club," Giggs said. "There are only a handful of proven winners at the very highest level and Jose is unquestionably one of them. I know the fans will welcome him.

"My final thank you is to the fans. I cannot begin to tell you how much I will miss walking out at Old Trafford in front of you. It's extremely difficult to say goodbye after 29 years. I have loved every minute both as a player and assistant manager. The support you have always shown me has been phenomenal.

"It's time for a new chapter and a new challenge. I'm excited about the future - I've had the best apprenticeship into management anyone could ever ask for."