Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has opened up on his thought process behind decision to leave England on a permanent basis.
For over three decades, Rio Ferdinand’s life has been dictated by football.
From training schedules as a teenager at West Ham to Champions League nights as Manchester United’s defensive leader, his calendar has never truly been his own.
Even after retiring, broadcasting work meant his weeks still revolved around fixture lists, travel, and analysis.
Now, the 46-year-old has decided it is time for a different rhythm – one driven by family, lifestyle and fresh opportunities.
Ferdinand has confirmed he is leaving England permanently, relocating with his family to Dubai.
The former England and United defender explained that a combination of lifestyle, safety and education prompted the move, with his children set to begin schooling in the UAE.
“We went over twice this year and I just saw a different side to it,” Ferdinand said to The National.
“The education system felt better for my kids.
“Teachers feel valued there, and it’s the perfect timing for my children.
“I’m not leaving football, but it’s just not the governing body of my life now.
“I’ve got to be honest, it feels nice.”
Ferdinand admitted that stepping away from TNT Sports, where he has been a prominent pundit since retiring, was instinctive but necessary.
European coverage, he said, consumed three days per match, leaving little room for family life or his growing business interests.
He plans to dedicate more time to his media company, investments and tech projects while still staying connected to football.
A new base in Dubai will also put him closer to Asia, where he hopes to connect with Manchester United’s huge fanbase.
“It’s freedom I’ve never had since I was 16,” he said to the National.
“I wanted a new chapter, and I’m excited by it.
“I want the headspace and the bandwidth to be able to kind of go in and operate in different areas, which I haven’t been able to.
“And I get thrown so many opportunities that I can’t take because I’ve got five kids that I want to be around… got a wife.
“We want to visit everywhere.”
The Englishman was also asked about how well he thinks the Red Devils will do this campaign.
“If Man United could finish in the top eight, that’s a good improvement.”
He also spoke glowingly of the recruitment in bringing Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo to the club this summer – two renowned Premier League stars.
“I’m happy with the recruitment of the players with Premier League experience, which is great, a must.”
“I still would want one more or two more.
However, Ferdinand remains insistent on seeing major improvements this season, in performances and results.
“You must see now an improvement in results, but you must see a style of football where it looks like these players are playing almost blind.
“The ball’s going, you can see the patterns of play repeating themselves on a regular basis because that’s when you’re knowing that the training is transferring to the match.”
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