Rio Ferdinand reveals the one Man United player that Has been a joke all along this season
Rio Ferdinand has heaped praise on Manchester United’s summer signing Bryan Mbeumo, describing the winger’s performances this season as nothing short of sensational.
The 26-year-old Cameroonian joined the Red Devils from Brentford in a £71 million deal in July and has quickly become one of the standout players under Ruben Amorim. Since arriving at Old Trafford, Mbeumo has notched six goals and one assist in just 12 appearances across all competitions. Five of those goals have come in the Premier League, helping United extend their unbeaten run to five league matches.
When asked on his YouTube podcast to identify United’s most influential player so far this season, Ferdinand listed three names — and Mbeumo was right at the top.
“Mbeumo has been an absolute joke,” Ferdinand said. “He’s come into this team and made himself undroppable. He’s the type of player who can hold the ball under pressure, create space, score vital goals, and set up chances for others.”
The former United defender also referred to comments made by Brentford boss Thomas Frank, who once called Mbeumo close to a “complete winger.” Ferdinand agreed, adding, “By the end of this season, he’ll be one of the most complete wide players in the league. He’s got every attribute — he just needs to keep producing it in a United shirt.”
Alongside Mbeumo, Ferdinand named defender Matthijs de Ligt and goalkeeper Senne Lammens as two other key figures driving United’s resurgence.
“It’s not just one man carrying the team,” he continued. “De Ligt has been our most reliable defender — absolutely outstanding. He even chipped in with that last-minute goal against Tottenham. His aggression, anticipation, and ability to defend high up the pitch have been top class. He’s been immense clearing danger in the box.”
Ferdinand also highlighted the impact of Lammens, crediting him for helping stabilize the team. “You can’t overlook the goalkeeper,” he added. “It’s no surprise our form improved once he came in. The players clearly trust him, and that makes all the difference.”
Meanwhile, Gary Neville believes the Red Devils can aim high this season. Speaking to Sky Sports, Neville said he’s confident United can fight their way into the top four, especially with their current momentum.
“They should absolutely be targeting a top-four finish,” Neville said. “No team has really secured that spot yet, so it’s wide open for them.”
Manchester United, currently sitting seventh in the Premier League, will return to action on November 24 when they face Everton after the international break.
