There was an odd sense of relief when, in May 2007, Ryan Giggs announced his retirement from international football. Though undeniably one of the greatest talents ever to play the game, Giggs never hit the heights for Wales that he did with Manchester United. His frequent withdrawal from competitive fixtures and total aversion to friendlies became a running joke. It seemed better for all concerned that Wales move on without their most famous player. On Monday, Giggs returned to the forefront of Welsh football as the new national team manager. But though it has only been a decade since his final international appearance, the landscape has changed dramatically. Wales have been to the semi-finals of a major tournament and currently possess a group of players more than capable of qualifying for Euro 2020. Giggs – untested and still every bit the big name – was by no means the people’s choice to succeed Chris Coleman. It would be wrong to call the public reaction to Giggs’ appointment wholly negative. Ultimately, most fans will give him the opportunity to win them over with performances on the pitch. But he will not be afforded the kind of grace reserved for legendary players who risk their reputation by returning to their old stomping ground as a manager. It is difficult to recall the highlight-reel moments from Giggs’ Wales career, far easier to remember news of another withdrawal. And so, far from being perceived as a returning hero, reactions in Wales generally range from cautious optimism to downright pessimism. Many fans sit in between those two emotions: uncertain about the appointment and its wider ramifications, wondering whether the glass is half full or half empty. Should it go well, this is a chance for Giggs to become the hero of Welsh football that he never was during his playing days. But if it does not, it poses a significant risk to his long-term aspirations in management.