Ryan Giggs reveals managing Wales or Manchester United would be the 'hard to beat highlight' of his career

Ryan Giggs has revealed he would love to one day manage Wales, describing the job as a highlight of his career were he to take it up.

Chris Coleman plans to step down after the current World Cup qualifying campaign, meaning a potential opening in July 2018 and depending on his circumstances Giggs made clear he would like the opportunity to take over.

The Manchester United legend also reaffirmed his desire to one day occupy the Old Trafford hotseat but admitted he would be willing to step down the football ladder first, having missed out on the Swansea job to Bob Bradley after having talks with the Premier League club's hierarchy.

One of his ultimate ambitions is to lead his nation, though, having won 64 caps as a player.

'Anybody who has played for their country and has aspirations of going into management would love to manage their own country,' said Giggs.

'What Chris has achieved in such a short space of time is unbelievable really, they have gone from strength to strength. Chris is doing a fantastic job. But in the future, who knows?

'Playing for Man United and playing for Wales, they are the two jobs which would be the highlight for me, and very hard to beat.'

United opted to appoint Jose Mourinho rather than hand the reins to Giggs following Louis van Gaal's departure, prompting the 42-year-old to leave the club after a quarter-century association.

Aston Villa considered Giggs during the summer and he was also linked to Cardiff City before last week's Swansea interview – but so far he has failed to land a No 1 role and dropping down the divisions would not be out of the question.

Speaking at a the Welsh Community Football Awards presented by McDonald's in Cardiff Giggs added: 'I believe you first of all have to earn your stripes and you have got to maybe start at a lower level and see where it takes you.

'Just as when I was a player you try to give your all and your best and if that is not good enough, so be it.'

Giggs is not is a hurry to find immediate employment however.

'This year, after leaving Man United I just thought I would take a year out because since I left school for 25 years it has been my life. Going in every day at Man United and training, putting yourself under pressure every day.

'So I thought I would take a year out, do a bit of broadcasting work, a bit of travelling, visit some other clubs, watch my son play at the weekend. Normal things that I wasn't able to do when I was playing or coaching.

'But also recognising that if an offer came in I would look at it. But at the moment I am enjoying life, as more relaxed than I was the previous 25 years.'