Giggs plays down City threat

Welshman feels United are still the greatest

Last updated: 4th September 2008

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Giggs: Intrigued by City developments

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Ryan Giggs believes Manchester United remain the biggest club in the world despite the takeover at Manchester City.

City confirmed on Monday that a deal had been agreed with the Abu Dhabi United Group for Development and Investment (ADUG).

Robinho arrived at Eastlands later the same day for a British record transfer fee and new owner Dr Sulaiman Al-Fahim plans to bring in more of the world's best players in January.

However, Giggs has told City that it will take more than money for them to challenge United as the greatest club in the world.

Giggs feels that United's rich history sets them apart, telling the club's official website: "City have the richest owner in the world but I still see United as the biggest club in the world.

Special

"United have a status and history that it has taken years to build up.

"It stretches back to the Busby babes, to players like Sir Bobby Charlton and George Best.

"It will be very interesting to see what happens at City, but what we have at United is very special.

"You see it when we go abroad in pre-season, you appreciate how popular United is.

"We have fans in India, China, South America. That popularity is a result of our history.

"Money can't necessarily get you that."

Pressure

The developments at City have prompted suggestions that they could break into the top four in the Premier League but Giggs is not sure.

He said: "A lot will depend on the players they buy, how quickly they gel and how they handle the attention.

"People have been asking for a long time now if somebody can break into the group.

"People will expect that club to be City and there will be a lot of pressure on them each season now. Everybody's attention will be on Manchester."