Former Manchester United icon Ryan Giggs is navigating a dramatically different chapter of his life as he approaches his 52nd birthday. The football legend, who secured an incredible 13 Premier League titles during his playing career, now finds himself away from the pitch and embracing new personal milestones.
Life After Football and Legal Battles
Giggs has been absent from football management since stepping down as Wales manager in 2022 following his arrest on suspicion of assault. The Crown Prosecution Service subsequently dropped all charges against him before a planned retrial in 2023, with Giggs having consistently denied allegations of assault and controlling behaviour towards his former partner Kate Greville and her sister.
His most recent role in football was as director of football at Salford City, a position he left in September. Despite this departure, the former winger has expressed clear ambitions to return to management, having previously served as both caretaker boss and assistant manager at Manchester United before leading the Welsh national team.
New Family and Personal Life
Throughout his legal challenges, Giggs received support from his girlfriend Zara Charles, a lingerie model 15 years his junior. The couple, who began their relationship in 2021, welcomed their daughter Cora in November of last year, making Giggs a father again at the age of 50.
A spokesperson for the football star announced at the time: "Ryan and his partner Zara are delighted to announce the birth of their daughter, Cora Giggs, who was born on Friday, November 1. They extend their warmest gratitude to all the amazing staff, especially the midwives, at Wythenshawe Hospital."
This new addition marks Giggs' third child, as he was already father to Libby and Zach from his previous marriage to Stacey Cooke.
Past Controversies and Family Dynamics
Giggs' personal life previously captured headlines when it emerged he had an eight-year affair with Natasha, the wife of his brother Rhodri. The revelation led to the breakdown of Rhodri's marriage, though the brothers appear to have moved forward from the controversy.
When recently questioned about his current relationship with Ryan, Rhodri responded on social media: "Mate, it was over 14 years ago and I've got two kids with someone else and made a shit load of money from it." He added: "I buzz off it. It was 14 years ago and I made about £1 million from it."
Interestingly, Rhodri has shown support for his brother's football legacy, expressing frustration that Ryan remains excluded from the Premier League Hall of Fame despite his record-breaking career achievements.
Future Ambitions in Football
Despite his absence from the touchline, Giggs maintains strong connections within the game. He was spotted working closely with Salford City boss Karl Robinson during his tenure at the club, where he previously served as co-owner until a takeover in May.
When asked about a potential return to management last year, Giggs confirmed: "I loved managing Wales, obviously. I do miss it, so hopefully." His determination to resume his coaching career suggests this legendary footballer's story in the sport is far from over.
