When Manchester United legend Ryan Giggs was appointed as the new head coach of the Welsh national side most fans were pleased, with this perhaps signalling the start of a bright future for the Dragons under a young and promising manager.
Things may not have gone exactly according to plan during the early stages of the former Wales international player's reign as boss of his country, but there have been plenty of promising signs and proceedings should look up for the squad overall in the near future.
The introduction of the new Nations League format has helped the Welsh side in terms of stronger opposition and more importance on games, rather than simply playing international friendlies during the break in club duties. This is exactly what the plan was when the system was introduced by UEFA.
However, they have had to endure a mix of emotions and results during Giggs' early moments in his tenure. The Old Trafford icon is now in international management with a keen eye on overseeing his nation's progress and developing them into a strong unit for the long-term future.
Meanwhile, there's a certain job at his former club the Red Devils which could be of interest further down the line, whenever the hierarchy potentially come calling after what he will hope has been a prosperous spell in charge of the Welsh Dragons.
Giggs is boosted by a young and promising squad, mixed in with some experienced heads, and not to mention boasting one of the best players in the world in the form of Real Madrid ace Gareth Bale.
The Los Blancos attacker was his country's main man during that incredible run during Euro 2016 and has since been busy helping them compete at the highest level again.
Since the sensational departure of Portugal international hitman Cristiano Ronaldo from Real Madrid to Turin titans Juventus this past summer during the transfer window, Bale has flourished and relished a more crucial role in the side now overseen by new boss Julen Lopetegui.
Bale is now arguably the key member of the Spanish giants' set-up and has been making a huge impact on results, alongside the likes of Isco and Marco Asensio.
This new cherished role for Bale, now that Real Madrid's all-time record goalscorer Ronaldo has finally departed the Bernabeu, will surely have a long-term benefit on his international career as well.
Giggs will be keen to see his star man continue his impressive form and fire Wales towards more encouraging results over time, with upcoming Nations League fixtures set to test his managerial skills even further on the horizon.
But if he can oversee a change in fortunes and guide Wales in the right direction over the coming years, he may ultimately land himself an even bigger role at club level.
-81a4f.png)
