Ryan Giggs leaves Man Utd

Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has ended his 29 year association with the club after agreeing a severance package, the BBC reports today.

There had been a wave of speculation over Giggs' future following the appointment of José Mourinho as United manager last month, and it now seems as though the Welshman has decided to step away from the club.

Giggs acted as caretaker manager in 2014 after the sacking of David Moyes, and was then assistant to Louis van Gaal for two seasons. The former winger felt this was a valuable experience and that he was ready to take over as manager after van Gaal's dismissal.

But the club instead decided to appoint former Chelsea and Real Madrid boss Mourinho.

Giggs is thought to have been offered a reduced role to remain part of the coaching staff at United, but Mourinho did not want him to be part of the management team.

Giggs'  -- who is the Red Devils' all-time highest appearance-maker -- is reportedly hurt by United's decision not to appoint him, as he feels he was promised to be next in line for the hotseat after van Gaal some time ago, and this has contributed heavily to his decision to leave.

The 42 year old had previously been linked to the Swansea City, Celtic and Nottingham Forest jobs, and will now look to forge a managerial career away from Old Trafford.