Ryan Giggs Praises Aaron Wan-Bissaka After Man Utd Exit to West Ham
Ryan Giggs, Manchester United legend, has hailed Aaron Wan-Bissaka as one of the Premier League’s top defenders following the right-back’s transfer to West Ham United.
This summer, Manchester United’s defense saw significant changes, with Erik ten Hag bringing in three high-profile defenders and allowing Wan-Bissaka to depart.
Manchester United invested £58 million in Leny Yoro, who unfortunately suffered a foot injury that will keep him out for three months.
Additionally, experienced defenders Matthijs de Ligt and Noussair Mazraoui were signed from Bayern Munich to bolster the backline.
Mazraoui made a strong impression in United’s 1-0 win over Fulham, which highlighted the club’s new defensive setup.
Wan-Bissaka, once deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, was sold to West Ham for £15 million—a considerable drop from the £50 million United paid Crystal Palace for him in 2019. Despite this, Giggs was quick to acknowledge Wan-Bissaka’s defensive prowess.
Speaking on the Webby & O’Neill YouTube channel, Giggs admitted that Wan-Bissaka’s one-on-one defending would have posed a significant challenge for him during his playing days. “I would’ve stayed away from him, especially later on in my career,” Giggs said. “I would’ve tried to take him places he didn’t want to go because, one on one, I think he’s one of the best in the league. Over the 90, he’s very tough to play against.”
During his five years at Manchester United, Wan-Bissaka made nearly 200 appearances, earning a reputation for his exceptional tackling and one-on-one defending.
However, his limited attacking contributions led Ten Hag to seek an upgrade, resulting in the acquisition of Mazraoui and Wan-Bissaka’s subsequent move to West Ham.
Wan-Bissaka has expressed his excitement about returning to London and joining West Ham. “It was a no-brainer for me to join West Ham – I’m excited and happy to be here,” he said after the transfer. “It’s an amazing feeling to be back in London, and I’m excited for what’s coming. I was born here, so I know the ins and outs of London… I will give it my all.”
Although he is yet to make his debut for West Ham, Wan-Bissaka is eager to contribute to his new team. “I can’t wait to get on the pitch, get to know the players, and push on from there. I see a team that is in it together, that will push each other to win, and a group that has got each other’s backs through thick and thin.”
As Wan-Bissaka looks to establish himself at West Ham, Giggs’ high praise underscores the defender’s lasting impact at Manchester United and his potential to excel in his new environment.
Ryan Giggs Praises Aaron Wan-Bissaka After Man Utd Exit to West Ham