Glowing star: In a symbolic gesture to mark Manchester United’s return to Malaysia, ProEvents CEO Julian Kam (left) presents a commemorative jersey to club legend Ryan Giggs (centre), together with managing director San Boon Wah (right) during a press event in Kuala Lumpur.
KUALA LUMPUR: Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs believes the club must take bold steps in the upcoming transfer window – starting with signing a top-class striker – if they are to return to their former glory.
Speaking at a press conference at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday (May 17), the Welshman admitted that United have fallen short of the elite standards set during their dominant years.
However, he pointed out that the club are still within touching distance of silverware this season, as they prepare to face Tottenham Hotspur in the UEFA Europa League final on Wednesday at the Estadio de San Mames in Bilbao, Spain.
"It’s a huge game," said Giggs during a press conference to talk about Manchester United’s friendly against the Asean All-Stars at the National Stadium in Bukit Jalil on May 28.
"The rewards will be qualification for the Champions League, financial incentives, and the prestige. It can completely change the outlook of a season."
Giggs, who won 13 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies with United, acknowledged that the club’s league form has been underwhelming. But he praised their resilience and performances in Europe.
"Credit to United. They’ve been excellent in the Europa League this season. They haven’t lost a game. That comeback against Lyon - three goals in the final six or seven minutes - was one of the most incredible things I’ve seen."
While a Europa League triumph would be a high note, Giggs didn’t shy away from calling out the club’s long-standing issues – particularly their failure in the transfer market.
The 52-year-old Giggs, who spent his entire playing career at Old Trafford, said the club used to rotate three or four top forwards - a far cry from the current situation.
He also noted the over-reliance on midfielder Bruno Fernandes for goals, something he believes must be addressed immediately.
"A proper striker has to be the top priority. But the question is always the same - who’s available? That’s why top strikers are so expensive - they score goals. They win matches."
True to his roots, Giggs also called for a return to entertaining wing play - a style synonymous with United during his era.
"I’m a bit biased, of course," he smiled.
"But watching (Alejandro) Garnacho and (Amad) Diallo take on defenders, scoring and creating - that’s what Manchester United is all about. It’s not just about winning, it’s about entertaining and getting fans off their seats, whether at the stadium or at home."
Looking ahead, Giggs stressed that fixing United will not be an overnight job - and certainly not a one-window fix.
"It’s going to take time. More than one transfer window, that’s for sure. And with the way football is now, patience is something you don’t always get."
He also spoke passionately about the current group of young players coming through the ranks, noting the importance of surrounding them with experienced leaders.
"We were lucky back in our time to have proper senior players who set the standard," he said.
"That’s crucial. It’s not just about bringing youth through as they need to be guided. When you’re in a team that’s not winning regularly, confidence is fragile. One week you’re up, the next week you’re down. That’s tough for a young player."
Still, Giggs believes that the club’s long-standing tradition of youth development remains strong.
"There are exciting prospects in the squad. That’s always been part of the United DNA. Hopefully, these young players grow into the next generation of leaders, stay at the club long-term, and form the foundation for a new era."
As United prepare for a crucial European final and what could be a transformative summer, the message from one of their greatest players is clear - rebuild smart, be bold, and trust the identity that made the club great.
