Rio Ferdinand

Who is Rio Ferdinand?

Rio Gavin Ferdinand is an English footballer. A centre-back, he is currently a free agent after leaving Manchester United following twelve years at the club. He played 81 times for the England national football team between 1997 and 2011, and has been a member of three FIFA World Cup squads.

Ferdinand began his football career playing for various youth teams, finally settling at West Ham United where he progressed through the youth ranks and made his professional Premier League debut in 1996. He became a fan favourite, winning the 'Hammer of the Year award' the following season. He earned his first senior international cap in a match against Cameroon in 1997, setting a record as the youngest defender to play for England at the time. His achievements and footballing potential attracted Leeds United and he transferred to the club for a record-breaking fee of £18 million. He spent two seasons at the club, becoming the team captain in 2001.

He joined Manchester United in July 2002 for around £30 million, breaking the transfer fee record once more. He won the Premier League, his first major club honour, in a successful first season at the club.