Robson: This is why Giggs can be like Guardiola

February 9, 2016
Posted by Steven Tan | Source from Express
United missed out on Guardiola after he agreed a deal to become Manchester City boss from the start of next season.
 
Jose Mourinho and Mauricio Pochettino have both reportedly been sounded out by United to replace Louis van Gaal. 
 
But Robson, a former club captain who played more than 400 times for United, insists the club should look closer to home and consider Giggs for the job - in a similar promotion to Guardiola's elevation from Barcelona's B team coach to the first-team manager.
 
Giggs has been Van Gaal's assistant since the Dutchman arrived at Old Trafford in the summer of 2014.
 
"Ryan really can be the Guardiola of United, I am sure of it," Robson was told The Sun. 
 
"Yes, he's a quiet lad but that should make no difference. He has always been a deep thinker of the game. He's worked hard to get to this point.
 
"They talk about Guardiola being intelligent and having a great football brain. Ryan is no different. He just needs the chance to prove what he can do once Van Gaal goes.
 
The former England captain also urged United not to panic amid any fears that City could continue to strengthen under Guardiola.
 
"There should be no knee-jerk reaction, no panic," added Robson. "Guardiola has a great record but United should not be reacting to what happens at City.
 
"United should carry on what was started when Van Gaal arrived.
 
"It was always said that during Van Gaal's time as manager Ryan would learn under him, get his pro-licence and be ready for the job. That should still be the case.
 
"People say Ryan hasn't got the experience. But he watched how Sir Alex Ferguson worked for 26 years and he's watching Van Gaal go about things now.
 
"He represents United's soul. He has been at the club since he was 13 and knows what is expected."
 
"The owners will make their decision and, in terms of Mourinho, I know there have been rumours flying around. But there is no stand-out person who could do the job any better than Ryan.
 
"Remember, Guardiola was untried as a top-line coach before Barcelona decided to give him his chance. The only way we are going to know if Giggsy can do the job is for him to be given it."
  • Related keywords: Ryan Giggs, Manchester United, Bryan Robson, Louis van Gaal