United legend delivers heart-breaking update after being forced into using a wheelchair by injuries

Rio Ferdinand has opened up about the physical toll of his playing career, admitting that severe back pain can sometimes leave him needing a wheelchair. The former Manchester United centre-back revealed this in an interview with Men’s Health magazine, as explained by the Daily Mail, stating the problem can strike without warning, disrupting his day-to-day life even a decade after retirement. The 47-year-old player-turned-pundit has managed the issue for years while still competing at the top level, relying on treatment to remain on the pitch. The pain can become so intense that he sometimes requires a short stay in hospital before using a wheelchair during the worst flare-ups. How Ferdinand is tackling the problem The Mail adds that Ferdinand has now established a more structured routine, including working with a physiotherapist and adapting his gym work to suit the condition. Furthermore, the former England defender is quoted as describing a more holistic approach, with an emphasis on prevention rather than simply masking symptoms. This shift has come after his football career, now that his schedule is no longer dictated by fixtures and he can prioritise long-term conditioning. In addition, the report notes that the United legend has recently relocated to Dubai with his family, but the back issue remains an ongoing challenge. Premier League context for United fans Ferdinand remains a familiar figure to supporters of the Red Devils, having been a key part of a trophy-laden era at Old Trafford. Meanwhile, the current United team are pushing near the top end of the Premier League table, sitting fourth after a run of wins under Michael Carrick. At the summit, Arsenal lead the title race by six points after 25 matches, with Manchester City also keeping up the pressure following a comeback win at Liverpool. Stories like Ferdinand’s, however, serve as a reminder that elite-level success can come with lasting consequences long after the final whistle. Featured image Gareth Copley via Getty Images The Peoples Person has been one of the world’s leading Man United news sites for over a decade. Follow us on Bluesky: @peoplesperson.bsky.social Okari Wambunya Okari Wambunya is a football writer at The Peoples Person, covering Manchester United with fast, accurate, and source-led news, analysis, opinions, team developments, injuries, press conferences, and matchday reactions. A former secondary school teacher, he now coaches college football (not soccer) and continues to support young people through academic mentoring and youth work. He holds a BA (Hons) in English from Brunel University London and an MA in Education from King’s College London, with experience across digital journalism and broadcast sports media. Okari first praised Michael Carrick in a blog post he wrote at 16-years-old in 2014; over a decade later, United appointing Carrick as interim head coach feels like a full-circle moment.