Ryan Giggs has called time on his Manchester United playing career almost 24 years after signing his first professional contract.

In an open letter to the club's fans, the 40-year-old explained his decision.

"I would also like to take this opportunity to announce my retirement from professional football and embark upon a new and exciting chapter in my life, as assistant manager of Manchester United. I am immensely proud, honoured and fortunate to have represented the biggest club in the world 963 times and Wales 64 times. My dream was always to play for Manchester United, and although it saddens me to know I won’t be pulling on a United jersey again as a player, I have been lucky enough to have fulfilled that dream playing with some of the best players in the world, working under an incredible manager in Sir Alex Ferguson, and most of all, playing for the greatest fans in world football. I have always felt and appreciated your support."

Shortly before his announcement, Man United confirmed that Louis Van Gaal will become manager with Giggs as his assistant.