Rio Ferdinand, a famous football pundit, revealed the name of a top-ranking coach who might consider becoming the new manager of Manchester United.
On 6 Jan 2026 GMT+7, Rio Ferdinand, former England international defender turned football analyst, claimed that Mikel Arteta, manager of Arsenal, might consider leaving the Gunners to become the new manager of Manchester United if approached.
Manchester United shocked many by abruptly sacking Rúben Amorim less than 24 hours after the Red Devils drew 1-1 away at Leeds United in the latest English Premier League match. One reason was Amorim's post-match interview, which seemed to target the club’s board, leading to his dismissal.
Recently, Rio Ferdinand was asked if Mikel Arteta would decline the Manchester United job. Rio replied, "No, Arteta certainly wouldn’t openly discuss this, but I’m telling you, Mikel Arteta will seriously consider the opportunity to manage Manchester United."
"I watched Amorim’s last two press conferences and felt something was wrong. One of his greatest strengths was his ability to answer questions fluently, frankly, with enthusiasm and humor during press conferences. But in his last two, he appeared very downcast."
Currently, Arteta is leading Arsenal to the top of the 2025-26 English Premier League after 20 matches, holding a 6-point lead over second-place Manchester City.