Pro Licence graduate Giggs takes charge of pre-season

Monday 07 Jul 2014
Giggs took charge of United training
Fresh from graduating from the UEFA Pro Licence course, Ryan Giggs took charge of Manchester United’s first day of pre-season training today.

With new United manager Louis van Gaal still in Brazil preparing for Holland’s World Cup semi-final with Argentina on Wednesday, Giggs was assisted by newly-appointed coaches Marcel Bout and Albert Stuivenberg at the club’s Carrington training centre.

The Old Trafford legend was at St. George’s Park a fortnight ago to complete his exams and revealed the preparation and experience from that will stand him in good stead.

Speaking to TheFA.com, he said: "Just speaking within a group was a challenge for me. Having to go up and to speak and present. From a year ago to now I’ve improved so much and become more confident. I’m really pleased with how that turned out."

Ryan Giggs gives an exclusive interview to TheFA.com

Giggs took charge of four games last season

 

Giggs put some of what he learned on the Pro Licence course into practice when he took over as boss of United for a four-game spell following David Moyes’ exit in April.

He added: "In the last part of last season, just addressing the players and addressing the group, I took things I learned on this course: body language and tone of voice. It’s certainly helped me and will continue to help me.

"We got to hear great speakers, motivational speakers, and learnt leadership skills.

"The take-away messages and the things I’ve learned on the course are how to be a better leader and how to organise and structure things a lot better.

"Whether you’re a coach or a manager, or even if you’ve just finished playing, I’d definitely recommend the course."

The Welshman’s improved communication skills will be a vital tool for him over the coming months with Van Gaal, 62, already in regular contact since his appointment as boss in May.

Giggs will play a key role in helping Van Gaal plot United’s return to challenging for honours this season after the club failed to win a trophy and finished seventh in the Premier League last term.

England left-back Luke Shaw has joined the club this summer as the rebuilding of the Red Devils begins – and another new signing, midfielder Ander Herrera, was one of those under Giggs’ tutelage this morning.

Giggs will remain in charge of training at the club until Van Gaal returns – which is expected to be when the squad depart on a five-match tour of the United States on Friday 18 July.

By FA Staff