LONDON // Manchester United interim manager Ryan Giggs admits Louis van Gaal has the right credentials to take charge at any of the world’s top clubs.
Van Gaal is widely expected to be appointed as United's new permanent manager before the end of the season despite strong support for Giggs from the team's fans and players.
While Giggs is a United legend with vast experience of what it takes to succeed at Old Trafford, the Welsh midfielder knows he cannot match the wealth of managerial knowledge amassed by Netherlands coach van Gaal in his long career.
Giggs, who is yet to complete his Uefa Pro Licence exams, oversaw a 4-0 win against Norwich City in his first match in charge of United last weekend following the dismissal of David Moyes.
The 40-year-old winger would clearly love the chance to manage United but he seemed to acknowledge that will not happen immediately as he saluted van Gaal’s achievements, which include winning the Champions League with Ajax and lifting domestic league titles at Barcelona and Bayern Munich.
Speaking ahead of Saturday’s match against Sunderland, Giggs had nothing but warm words for van Gaal when asked about his potential successor.
“He has a brilliant reputation,” Giggs said. “He is a successful manager in different countries. Obviously he has taken Holland to the World Cup. He has a fantastic pedigree.”
What role Giggs plays under van Gaal remains to be seen.
Giggs could coach under van Gaal, he could play for the Dutchman or he may depart for pastures new after 24 years at Old Trafford.
The midfielder said he would not decide his future until the end of the season.
“My concentration is on the remaining three games and then I will see what happens at the end of the season,” Giggs said.
“I have got to decide if I want to play or not, so there is no point thinking if I want to be an assistant or if I want to be a manager somewhere else.
“There are so many things to think about, but that’s in the future.
“I honestly don’t know [what I will do].”
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