Why Ryan Giggs Will Be in Salford City’s Dugout for Man City FA Cup Tie

• Ryan Giggs will feature in the dugout during Salford City’s FA Cup clash with Manchester City.
• The former Manchester United legend is part-owner of the League Two club.
• His presence in this role has stirred significant controversy.

BBC cameras are bound to capture Ryan Giggs in the Salford City dugout during Saturday’s FA Cup third-round clash against Manchester City.

The former Manchester United winger, part-owner of Salford City, has taken up a position alongside manager Karl Robinson as the League Two club prepares for what would be a monumental upset. However, Giggs’ touchline involvement has raised questions and criticism.

Here’s why Giggs is on the touchline and why his role has sparked controversy.

Why Is Ryan Giggs in the Dugout Against Man City?

Although Giggs co-owns Salford alongside his former “Class of ’92” teammates, he has been assisting first-team manager Karl Robinson since October 2024, initially stepping in during a temporary coaching crisis.

Giggs took to the touchline for a game against Crewe Alexandra after assistant coach Simon Wiles departed, and Alex Bruce, the remaining assistant, was unavailable following the tragic death of his nephew. Giggs offered his help to avoid leaving Robinson short-staffed.

The arrangement has since become semi-permanent. Despite Bruce returning to his role, Giggs has continued to assist, featuring in 17 Salford matches so far, with only two defeats under his watch. He will now be present at the Etihad Stadium, guiding Salford in their attempt to stun Pep Guardiola’s side.

Speaking to The Athletic, Giggs explained his unexpected role:

“Karl was literally going to be left on his own [vs Crewe], so I said, ‘Right, I’ll come on the bench with you.’ It was just me, Karl, the physio, the goalkeeping coach, and the sports scientist.

“I enjoyed it, Karl enjoyed it, and it saved the club some money. Whether I stay in the dugout is up to Karl, but I’m enjoying it for now.”

Giggs also highlighted how saving on coaching salaries has allowed Salford to redirect funds towards better equipment or even player acquisitions.

Why Is Ryan Giggs’ Presence Controversial?

Giggs’ return to a visible footballing role is divisive due to his legal history. In October 2020, the former Wales manager was arrested on suspicion of assaulting his ex-girlfriend Kate Greville, allegations he denied.

He was accused of head-butting Greville and subjecting her to controlling and coercive behaviour, as well as assaulting her sister, Emma. Giggs denied all charges, but the jury in his first trial failed to reach a verdict. In July 2023, he was formally acquitted after Greville chose not to testify again during a retrial, citing emotional exhaustion from the legal process.

The controversy surrounding Giggs’ return has prompted criticism from advocacy groups like Women’s Aid, who expressed disappointment in seeing individuals accused of abuse reclaim public roles:

“It’s disheartening to see alleged perpetrators of abuse being considered for elevated positions of influence and power,” the charity said.

“Football clubs and the sports industry have a responsibility to uphold respect, equality, and safety for women and children. Football is a global sport, with players and managers often serving as role models for millions of young boys and men.”

Conclusion

Ryan Giggs’ role with Salford City is bound to divide opinion as the club faces Manchester City in a high-profile FA Cup fixture. While some view his involvement as a practical measure for a cash-strapped League Two club, others see it as a problematic return to prominence for a figure embroiled in serious allegations.