Rio Ferdinand says 'magnificent' Man Utd player is now 'number one' for Ruben Amorim

Despite the criticism, Manchester United are beginning to turn the Premier League season around with multiple players performing well.

After a worst start to the league season since 1992, things are looking a lot better this week after Manchester United’s 2-1 win over Chelsea on Saturday.

It was a drama-filled affair for the Red Devils and the Blues, with two red cards the deciding factors in the game.

With the win, Manchester United now sit 11th in the Premier League, three points adrift of second-place Arsenal and level with Manchester City, who are often the gold standard

In the win over Chelsea, United had some standout performers, with Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes taking many of the plaudits.

However, for Rio Ferdinand, another player is deserving of praise as he quickly becomes one of United’s best.

Rio Ferdinand heaps praise on Matthijs de Ligt

After a hot and cold first season at Old Trafford, the 2025/26 campaign has so far seen Matthijs de Ligt emerge as a star for Ruben Amorim.

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De Ligt has made himself undroppable with sublime defensive performances, and also a new quality that sees him joining the attack.

Now, speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents YouTube channel, the former United defender has lauded the Dutchman.

“I think he’s been magnificent this season,” Ferdinand explained.

“Solid in all departments, and I think he’s put himself in place to be probably the first name on the sheet, if we go by Yoro being a sub at the weekend, and you think, ‘okay’, De Ligt is now the number one choice defender, in the eyes of the manager.

“He’s been so sound, and the fact that he’s been keeping Harry Maguire out of the team says everything.”

When it comes to judging centre-backs, there are few better than Ferdinand, who is undoubtedly one of the best in the history of football.

He isn’t alone in being won over by De Ligt.

Matthijs de Ligt is finally living up to his Golden Boy potential at Manchester United

After his colossal performance against Chelsea, it was said that De Ligt was beginning to unlock his “undoubted quality” at United, after a few years of struggle.

Ferdinand isn’t alone in his belief in the Dutchman, as Jaap Stam also backs De Ligt to get back to his best level, which he is closer to than ever.

De Ligt was once the European Golden Boy, which shows how talented he is, considering defenders rarely win the prize.

Testament to his ability, even Jamie Carragher has praised De Ligt, stating that he has the quality to be a Real Madrid defender, which is a big compliment.

De Ligt is only 26 and therefore, if he does now kick forward and become the world-class defender he promises to be, United could easily get five years of this level as he enters his prime years.

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