Giggs warns Asean nations naturalised players not quick fix
KUALA LUMPUR: Manchester United icon Ryan Giggs has urged Southeast Asian nations not to treat naturalised and dual-heritage players as a shortcut to success.
Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs has cautioned Southeast Asian nations against relying on naturalised and dual-heritage players as a quick route to football success. Speaking in Kuala Lumpur, the 13-time Premier League winner highlighted the need for robust domestic academy systems to support long-term progress in the sport. While Giggs acknowledged that foreign talent can temporarily enhance a team's abilities, he stressed that this approach should not jeopardise grassroots development.
He emphasized the importance of high-quality, professional foreign players and stressed that coaching should ideally come from within. Giggs also reflected on his strong bond with Malaysia, calling it a vital commercial partner for English football. Despite his decades-long career, he expressed heartfelt appreciation for Malaysian fans, their vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine.
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