Revealed: Man Utd legend Ryan Giggs unofficially working as Salford City director of football after assault charges acquittal

Despite no prior formal announcement from the club, Giggs, 50, was referenced as their director of football in a recent statement issued by Salford City, while confirming the appointment of Alex Bruce as an assistant coach. The club has now confirmed that the Manchester United legend has been working in the capacity since the start of the campaign.

Giggs' return to the football scene comes after a hiatus following his acquittal of charges related to an alleged assault on his former partner last year. The football icon vehemently denied all accusations, and his resumption of duties at Salford City signals a new chapter in his career.

Giggs is a co-owner of Salford City alongside former Manchester United teammates Gary Neville, Phil Neville, Nicky Butt, Paul Scholes, and David Beckham. While Butt serves as the League Two side’s chief executive, the others, except for Scholes, hold directorial positions as per the club's filings.

Giggs' journey in football administration traces back to his tenure at Manchester United. Initially appointed as a player-coach under David Moyes in 2013, Giggs assumed interim managerial duties at the close of the season following Moyes’ departure. He later transitioned to an assistant role under Louis van Gaal before parting ways with the club upon Jose Mourinho's arrival in 2016.

His managerial acumen extended beyond club football, as Giggs led the Welsh national team from January 2018 until June 2022, although assistant manager Rob Page was appointed as interim head coach after Giggs was arrested in November 2020.

On the pitch, Salford City currently finds themselves positioned 20th in League Two, with Karl Robinson assuming the role of head coach in January after the dismissal of Neil Wood. The team stands eight points above the relegation zone, with Colchester United occupying the 22nd position, signalling a challenging yet critical phase for Salford City as they navigate through the remainder of the season. They will return to action against Stockport on Thursday evening in a league encounter.