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June 21 (UPI) -- New York Giants great Eli Manning, who guided the franchise to two Super Bowl championships, is officially back with the organization in a business operations and fan engagement role. In a statement released Monday, the Giants said Manning also will work on original content development, which includes a new lifestyle series that debuts this fall.
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The 40-year-old Manning retired after the 2019 season following a team-record 16 seasons as the Giants' starting quarterback.
"I'm willing to do anything, but I'm focused on the business side with corporate partners and on community relations, which was always so important to me while I was playing here and is something I've placed a high priority on throughout my life," Manning said.
"I'm looking forward to seeing where I can make the most impact in helping the Giants achieve their business and community goals."
The Giants also revealed that Manning's No. 10 jersey will be retired in a halftime ceremony during a Week 3 matchup against the visiting Atlanta Falcons on Sept. 26 at MetLife Stadium. The two-time Super Bowl MVP will be inducted into the team's Ring of Honor at that time.
Manning appeared in 236 regular-season games for the Giants. He was named to the Pro Bowl four times and holds almost every franchise passing record.
"It's a great honor and just an unbelievable feeling," Manning said. "I don't know what the emotions will be that day. I know they'll be high, though. To have that feeling and that final goodbye, a true goodbye to the fans, and to thank them for supporting me during my 16 seasons here, it's going to be special.
"I think it's an opportunity for me to thank everybody here -- teammates, coaches and the organization -- for believing in me, for bringing me to New York and for giving me a chance to have success. It'll be an awesome day to be here and a great celebration."
Manning took last year off while deciding what was next in his NFL career. Giants co-owner John Mara previously said the door was open for a potential return.
The COVID-19 pandemic, however, kept Manning away from the team facility and stadium last season.
"For 16 seasons, Eli represented and defined what it meant to be a Giant, and we are excited for him to join the business side of our front office," Mara said. "Eli is one of the most beloved players in Giants history. We had a mutual interest in him returning to the organization and we're thrilled to welcome him back."
