Share

Rio sidesteps exit questions

Singapore - Rio Ferdinand has sidestepped questions about his abrupt departure from Manchester United on Thursday and said he was still considering his next move.

The former England captain, taking questions in Singapore during a promotional visit, said he had already "settled" the matter with a statement on his website.

"My statement at the end settled what needed to be settled... I don't want it to become a 'Rio Ferdinand affair'," Ferdinand told media.

In his statement, the 35-year-old admitted that "circumstances didn't allow for me to say goodbye the way I would have liked", after a trophy-filled, 12-year career at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand was dropped for the last home game of the season and on Monday, he revealed he would leave the club after his contract expires in July.

British media said Ferdinand was only told at the last minute that his contract would not be renewed, in what was interpreted as harsh treatment for a long-serving and successful player.

Ferdinand, appearing with Manchester City's Sergio Aguero, said he was still mulling what do next. He looks likely to seek a new club after saying in his statement that he felt "fit and healthy, ready for a new challenge".

"Future-wise I am not sure... I am really enjoying my time here (in Singapore) and I haven't had much time to think about my next step," he said

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
26% - 1271 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
29% - 1469 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2240 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE