Manchester United Legend Signs Off After Champions League Final to Focus on Family and Business Ventures
Rio Ferdinand will call his final Champions League match this Saturday in Munich, bringing down the curtain on his 10-year broadcasting career with TNT Sports. The Manchester United icon confirmed his departure was a personal decision, driven by a desire to reclaim family time after years of extensive travel covering Premier League and European football.
In an emotional social media post, the 45-year-old reflected on his “dream come true” punditry journey while hinting at future collaborations: “To the incredible production teams – your unseen work made our shows possible,” Ferdinand wrote. “While this chapter closes, I’ll be pouring that energy into New Era agency and my production company’s growing slate of podcasts and interviews.”
Industry sources reveal Ferdinand leaves on excellent terms with TNT Sports, keeping the door open for FA Cup guest appearances next season. His exit creates a major vacancy in their lineup, following Gary Lineker’s recent BBC departure and amid rising star turns from Gareth Bale in the commentary box.
The former England defender’s signature blend of tactical insight and player perspective made him a fan favorite – his analysis of Real Madrid’s 2022 comeback against Manchester City went viral for its pitch-perfect emotion. Now, as Ferdinand prepares to trade press boxes for school runs and boardrooms, Saturday’s Wembley finale promises to be a fitting sendoff for one of football broadcasting’s most influential voices.
“From the Bernabéu to Anfield, I’ve been blessed to witness football’s magic up close,” he added. “But now it’s time to create new magic at home – though you haven’t seen the last of me yet.” With his production company already developing new sports content, Ferdinand’s next act might just redefine how fans experience the game off the pitch.
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