Giggs’ Premier League Hall of Fame Exclusion Sparks Debate

Ryan Giggs’ Premier League Hall of Fame absence has remained a heated topic since the league’s decision to withdraw his induction in 2021. The Manchester United icon, with an unmatched 13 Premier League titles and a record 162 assists, was originally set to be one of the first three legends honored when the Hall of Fame was launched. However, the Premier League’s last-minute removal of Giggs, following domestic abuse charges, has continued to draw attention and criticism, especially after his legal acquittal in 2023.

Ryan Giggs’ Hall of Fame Withdrawal Explained

Ryan Giggs’ Premier League Hall of Fame induction was meant to recognize his unparalleled contribution to English football. According to reports from The Telegraph, Giggs was selected to join Alan Shearer and Thierry Henry as inaugural inductees in 2021. As the league prepared its marketing and celebration plans, legal proceedings against Giggs escalated. In November 2020, he was arrested and later charged with assault and coercive behavior.

With the Premier League eager to establish the Hall of Fame as a symbol of footballing excellence, decision-makers determined that including Giggs could create significant public relations issues. Consequently, executives discreetly removed his name from all marketing materials and the official induction list, despite his storied career.

Impact of Legal Troubles on Giggs’ Legacy

The timing of Giggs’ legal issues overlapped directly with the rollout of the Premier League Hall of Fame. As his trial proceeded in 2022, the league maintained its stance, excluding him from both the initial and subsequent fan voting rounds. Even though the jury was unable to reach a verdict, a retrial was set, only for the case to be dropped in July 2023 when the alleged victim chose not to testify again. Giggs was acquitted of all charges and declared not guilty, clearing his legal record.

Despite this, the Premier League has not revisited its decision. Giggs remains absent from the Hall of Fame, while other Manchester United legends such as Eric Cantona, Roy Keane, and David Beckham have been honored in the years since.

Records Overlooked as Giggs Remains Sidelined

Giggs’ exclusion from the Premier League Hall of Fame has become even more conspicuous with each new round of inductees. As of 2026, he holds the record for most appearances by an outfield player (632), the most Premier League titles (13), and the highest number of assists (162). Statistically, his achievements set him apart from virtually every other player in the competition’s history.

Yet, Giggs has not appeared on any shortlist since his acquittal, creating a glaring gap in the Hall of Fame’s lineup. His enduring absence has become a talking point among fans and pundits alike, who question whether off-field controversies—especially those for which he was legally cleared—should outweigh on-field achievements.

Family and Fans React to Giggs’ Ongoing Exile

The Premier League’s continued snub has not gone unnoticed among Giggs’ supporters. When the 2025 Hall of Fame shortlist was unveiled without his name, frustration boiled over. Giggs’ brother, Rhodri, took to social media, labeling the Hall of Fame a “sham” and emphasizing Ryan’s trophy-laden career with the hashtag #TheShamHallOfFame.

Many in the football community argue that the league’s decision has set a difficult precedent. Even after legal exoneration, Giggs faces ongoing exclusion, raising questions about fairness and the long-term implications for how the Premier League recognizes its greatest contributors.

Premier League’s Approach to Reputation Management

The league’s handling of the Giggs situation underscores its approach to brand management and public image. By quietly removing Giggs in 2021, officials aimed to prevent controversy from overshadowing the Hall of Fame’s debut. While this may have protected the league in the short term, the issue is far from resolved, with calls for a transparent review of the selection process growing louder.

As the Premier League continues to honor new legends and celebrate the game’s history, the exclusion of its most decorated player remains a contentious topic. Many believe it is time for the league to revisit its criteria and ensure that the Hall of Fame truly reflects footballing excellence.

Opinion: Time for Reflection and Fairness

In my view, while the Premier League’s initial caution was understandable, the continued exclusion of a player acquitted by the courts is hard to justify. Giggs’ legacy on the pitch is undeniable, and if the Hall of Fame is to remain a credible celebration of footballing greatness, it should acknowledge achievements based on merit and due process. For more news on football’s biggest stories, visit for more news.