Wales international Gareth bale was asked in an advert he did for Foot Locker who the greatest player he has ever shared a pitch with was.
The Second most expensive footballer did not mention his Real Madrid teammate and fellow superstar Cristiano Ronaldo. Bale said:
“For me, the greatest player is Ryan Giggs. He was my hero growing up and is a legend in world football. It also helps he’s a fellow Welshman.”
Many thought he would name three-time Ballon d’Or winner and teammate Ronaldo, La Liga rival Lionel Messi – the top two football talents in this generation. David Bentley, a Tottenham Hotspur legend, is another that Bale skipped. Despite playing just a few games together with the Red Devils legend, Bale picked him over everyone else.
Giggs is one of the most consistent players of all time, retiring at the age of 40 only after Man United named him assistant manager. The Welsh international is the most decorated player in the English Premier League. He won 13 league titles, four FA Cups, two UEFA Champions League trophies, and others totalling 34 in his illustrious career. The ex-player, who retired in 2014, is gradually building a managerial career.
After announcing his retirement from professional football, Executive vice-chair of Man United Ed Woodward said:
“Ryan Giggs has been one of the greatest players ever to wear the red shirt of Manchester United. What he has achieved will never be equalled in the English game.”
In 963 appearances, Giggs scored 168 goals. On the international front, the lack of competitiveness limited the ex-player from achieving more. He only played 64 games but he inspired many others like Bale, else Bale naming him as the greatest player ever.