Rio Ferdinand: Leeds United fans anger ‘wrecks my head’

Rio Ferdinand expressed frustration that some Leeds United fans are still upset about his departure to rival club Manchester United more than 20 years ago. The former footballer, who completed a £30m move in July 2002, shared his surprise at the lingering resentment during an episode of ex-rugby league star Rob Burrow’s podcast. Ferdinand urged fans to grasp the circumstances behind his transfer, emphasizing that the club needed to sell assets due to financial constraints.

In the podcast, Ferdinand recounted a recent encounter with Leeds away fans who demonstrated lingering anger, prompting him to reflect on the situation. He clarified that as a non-local player, he initially didn’t fully grasp the intensity of the rivalry. Explaining his decision to join Manchester United, Ferdinand highlighted the club’s potential for success, a choice vindicated by his subsequent achievements.

Ferdinand also discussed his experiences playing alongside Wayne Rooney, naming him as his worst-ever teammate. He attributed their frequent arguments to his desire for Rooney to maximize his goal-scoring abilities, contrasting with Rooney’s preference for a more involved, playmaking role akin to Paul Scholes. Despite the disagreements, Ferdinand characterized their arguments as constructive and indicative of their passion for the game.

‘Being Mum and Dad’

In the podcast, Ferdinand discussed the process of creating a TV documentary on grief following the passing of his wife Rebecca, referring to it as a “cathartic experience.” Rebecca, who succumbed to breast cancer at the age of 34 in 2015, prompted Ferdinand to reflect on his own identity and family dynamics, offering insights into how he could support his children in moving forward.

The BBC documentary, titled “Rio Ferdinand: Being Mum and Dad,” debuted in 2018, showcasing Ferdinand’s exploration of how bereaved parents cope with loss and reshape their lives for both themselves and their children. Ferdinand credited the documentary with playing a crucial role in his current family situation, expressing that without it, he might have spiraled into depression.

Drawing parallels, Lindsey noted similarities in emotions while producing Burrow’s documentary, “Living with MND.” She commended Rob Burrow for his courage in opening up during a vulnerable time, considering his private nature.

Ferdinand also shared childhood experiences, mentioning that attending a ballet school had prepared him well for his football career. On a lighter note, he ruled out participating in “Strictly Come Dancing,” fearing his kids’ disapproval, and addressed the iconic white suit he wore when signing for Manchester United in 2002. Despite considering it a “phenomenal suit,” he humorously recalled manager Alex Ferguson’s bemusement, pledging to donate the suit to the Manchester United museum.