Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender, could be leaving TNT Sports at the end of the season after a whopping 12 years with the broadcaster. The bloke first appeared on our screens as part of their coverage back in 2013 whilst he was still playing for the Red Devils. But now, the Daily Mail reports that Ferdinand has yet to sign a new contract with TNT Sports, despite being offered one six months ago. His current deal is set to expire this summer, so it looks like he could be on his way out.
Ferdinand's management company pens partnership with American talent agency
In a twist of events, Ferdinand's management company, New Era, have penned a partnership with an American talent agency. They're now in collaboration with William Morris Endeavor (WME), a Beverly Hills-based firm. This move could see Ferdinand make a switch to a broadcaster in the USA in the summer, just in time for the 2026 World Cup, which the USA are co-hosting with Canada and Mexico.
Ferdinand's YouTube channel boasts 1.29million subscribers
New Era currently produce Ferdinand's digital magazine FIVE and also work on his popular YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents. The channel has a whopping 1.29million subscribers on the platform and features a host of exclusive interviews with current and former players. It's a pretty big deal.
WME represent a host of A-list celebrities and sporting stars
WME, the American talent agency, already represent a host of A-list celebrities, including Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds, Jessica Alba and Maggie Gyllenhaal. Their sporting clients also include NBA stars and broadcasters, which is eluded to on the company website. The website states that "WME Sports represents today's stars and Hall-of-Famers, athletes, coaches, broadcasters, executives, and institutions that keep sports at the forefront of culture." They help clients maximise earnings and extend their influence beyond the field of play.
Ferdinand's illustrious career
Ferdinand first joined TNT Sports in 2013 when the broadcaster was still called BT Sports. He had still been playing for United at the time, retiring two years later following a season with QPR. Ferdinand's club career saw him make 699 appearances, with spells at West Ham, Bournemouth and Leeds prior to joining the Red Devils. The centre-back went on to win 15 trophies across 12 years at Old Trafford including the Champions League and six league titles. He also scored three goals in 81 caps for England during his playing career.
