Former Premier League defender Rio Ferdinand, who was the world’s most expensive defender twice, has spoken up about the pressure he endured while playing.
Rio Ferdinand, a former Leeds United defender, has stated that it was difficult to overcome the pressure that came with his high price tag after moving from West Ham United.
In November 2000, the 45-year-old swapped Upton Park for Elland Road. The signing would make him the world’s most expensive defender at the time, with the West Yorkshire club paying a £18 million price.
Ferdinand went on to play a key role in David O’Leary’s Champions League semi-final team. The defender would also have memorable moments in his first season with the club, including goals against Liverpool and upon his return to East London.
The following season, he took over as club captain after Lucas Radebe, and he led the Whites to another successful campaign. However, due to financial issues at the club, new manager Terry Venables was forced to part ways with the defender.
Before moving to Old Trafford, Ferdinand had a successful FIFA World Cup campaign. The Three Lions advanced to the quarter-finals before being eliminated by Brazil, participating in all five games, including a goal against Denmark in the Round of 16.
When he returned to England, Leeds accepted an initial proposal of £29.3 million, with potential performance add-ons raising the overall transfer value to £33.3 million. The move broke Ferdinand’s record as the world’s most expensive defender.
But, speaking on his FIVE podcast, Ferdinand said that he felt the weight of expectation right away. The former England defender claimed it affected his daily life at both Leeds and Manchester United.
“The pressure that [beings a world record transfer] brings is immeasurable,” he stated. “Everywhere you go, you have the impression that others are staring at you, thinking about and discussing the price tag.
“Whether it’s driving to the store for a loaf of bread, filling up your car with gas, or strolling down the street with your missus. Whatever it is, you feel like all eyes are on you, and all they’re thinking about is the transfer money and the expectation.”
Ferdinand completed his Elland Road career after 73 appearances over two years. He went on to win six Premier League titles with the Red Devils before retiring from professional football in 2013.
