Rio Ferdinand understands the immense pressure that comes with wearing Manchester United’s iconic red jersey.

As a former world-record transfer defender, the ex-England international enjoyed a glittering 12-year career at Old Trafford, securing six Premier League titles, the Champions League, and two League Cups.

However, United’s dominance is now a distant memory. The club currently finds itself in the lower half of the league table, showing little progress since Rúben Amorim’s appointment six weeks ago.

Despite the turmoil, Ferdinand is calling for patience and a long-term strategy.

“We need to think long-term now,” he Sport after receiving the Player Career Award at the Globe Soccer Awards in Dubai.

“For Manchester United, it’s strange to say this, but we can’t set immediate targets. We’re not in a position to do that.

“We have to rebuild not just the team and individual players but also the club’s culture and environment. That takes time. If we focus solely on short-term success, we risk neglecting the bigger picture.”

A ‘Different Challenge’

Leading this ambitious rebuilding process are manager Rúben Amorim and the club’s soccer operations team under INEOS.

Both have committed to reversing United’s fortunes following a turbulent post-Ferguson era. Amorim, a highly regarded European coach, faces the challenge of adapting to the intensity and expectations of English football. Meanwhile, INEOS will be judged on their decisions both on and off the pitch—decisions that have already divided fans and pundits.

United’s new CEO, Omar Berrada, has outlined a three-year vision aiming to see the club lift the Premier League trophy in 2028, coinciding with its 150th anniversary. However, given the current struggles, that goal seems far off.

“We need to give INEOS the chance to prove they can turn things around,” Ferdinand said. “They’re now making key decisions, and they will be judged on those choices.

“Amorim did a fantastic job at Sporting, transforming the club’s narrative. His charisma and communication skills stood out even before he arrived at United.

“But managing Manchester United is a completely different challenge.”

Looking ahead, Ferdinand hopes for a more positive atmosphere at Old Trafford.

“By 2025, I want Manchester United to be a club with positive energy and direction—not one constantly weighed down by disappointment.”

Learning from Rivals

United could take inspiration from their fierce rivals, Liverpool.

Many questioned whether Arne Slot could seamlessly succeed Jürgen Klopp, one of the club’s most successful managers. However, Slot has silenced doubters, leading Liverpool to the top of both the Premier League and UEFA Champions League group stage with an unbeaten record.

Ferdinand highlighted the contrast between United’s chaotic management and Liverpool’s smooth transition.

“There’s so much noise and confusion at United, whereas Liverpool’s approach has been seamless,” he said.

“This shows the importance of strong infrastructure behind the scenes. Also, Liverpool’s squad was already stable, filled with players who had been winning together for years. They just needed fine-tuning.”

With Manchester United far from title contention and Manchester City experiencing a rare slump under Pep Guardiola, Liverpool now looks like the team to beat.

“I don’t think City can turn it around to win the league this year,” Ferdinand admitted.

“I originally thought City would win again, with Arsenal pushing them close. But Liverpool has started strong, showing a level of consistency that no one else can match right now.”