Rio Ferdinand Presents

Episoder

• Ollie Watkins: That Semi-Final Goal Changed my Career Forever 02.06.2026 51min

  This is Ollie Watkins reflecting on a journey that very few footballers ever experience - opening up on going from League Two and non-league football to scoring one of England’s biggest goals in recent history. Chilling with Rio in his Airbnb, Watkins reveals why he still thinks about those early days every time he walks out for Aston Villa in the Champions League.Despite becoming one of the Premier League’s most consistent forwards, Watkins remains hugely grounded throughout this conversation - discussing the impatience that drove him early in his career, the responsibility he felt during Steven Gerrard’s time at Aston Villa and why Unai Emery completely changed the standards and mentality within the squad.There’s fascinating insight into the mentality of elite strikers too, including why Erling Haaland’s role is “so difficult”, how studying Ruud van Nistelrooy helped develop his instincts inside the box and why Harry Kane’s leadership is more about standards than shouting.Watkins also explains the challenge of being used as an impact substitute for England and reveals the voice note he sent to friends before his huge semi-final goal after growing frustrated on the bench.The pair also discuss Thomas Tuchel’s arrival as England manager, why the squad are already buying into his demand for more arrogance and confidence, and how nobody in the camp can beat him at table tennis. Plus brilliant stories and insight on Jude Bellingham, Cole Palmer, Marcus Rashford, Morgan Rogers, Phil Foden and why Watkins believes criticism of Gareth Southgate was completely unfair.There’s also a brilliant look into dressing room culture and player personalities - from fashion disasters in the France squad and ping-pong battles at England camp to why Michael Owen’s advice means more than anybody else’s and the underrated qualities that make Ezri Konsa such a difficult defender to play against.Brought to you in partnership with Airbnb #ad Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Joao Pedro: Cole Palmer would start for Brazil | Why Neymar is an idol to me and my Mum 27.05.2026 38min

  João Pedro opens up on the pressure and sacrifices behind his journey from Brazil to the Premier League - revealing how his mum quitting her job to support his football dream made him realise at just 15 years old that he had no choice but to succeed.Whilst relaxing in Rio's Airbnb, Joao reveals how he was inspired by Cristiano Ronaldo and LeBron James, João explains why he became obsessed with doing extra work after moving to England and how switching from winger to striker completely changed his career - despite initially hating the move.He also tells Rio how Watford convinced him to move ahead of waiting for clubs like Barcelona, Liverpool and Manchester City and how Richarlison showed him that Premier League success was possible.João gives hilarious insight into training ground battles with Marc Cucurella, Moisés Caicedo and Reece James - while also backing James to become the best right-back in world football because of his mentality and leadership.There’s fascinating tactical discussion too as João explains why movement is the strongest part of his game, how Cole Palmer’s creativity has helped him become more dangerous in the box and why he now sees himself as a number nine in the mould of Harry Kane and Sergio Agüero. He also admits he completely underestimated Palmer when he first arrived - before eventually deciding the Chelsea star would comfortably start for the current Brazil team under Carlo Ancelotti.The conversation also gives brilliant insight into the pressure surrounding the Brazilian national team, Ancelotti’s influence on the squad and why Neymar is still discussed “every single day” in Brazil ahead of what could be his final World Cup.Plus there are brilliant stories around Vinicius Jr’s mentality, Casemiro’s leadership and what it felt like walking into his first Brazil training camp alongside players he’d previously only seen on FIFA Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• “Sir Alex Is STILL Better Than Pep” | Rio on GOAT Manager + Man United signing Lewandowski 25.05.2026 47min

  Rio is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to react to the end of the Premier League season - including why Bruno Fernandes deserves to be Player of the Year and why Rio believes his numbers alongside better attacking players next season could be “a madness”.The trio also discuss Michael Carrick’s future at Manchester United, the scale of the rebuild still needed at Old Trafford and whether signing Robert Lewandowski on a free transfer would actually make sense for the club.Arsenal’s title-winning season is another obvious talking point, with Rio insisting Mikel Arteta deserves enormous credit for surviving years of criticism and finally ending Manchester City’s dominance.There’s also a brilliant debate around Pep Guardiola’s legacy and why Rio still believes Sir Alex Ferguson remains the greatest manager of all time.Plus the lads hand out their end-of-season awards, react to Aston Villa’s guard of honour - Rio says why Mohamed Salah showed exactly how those moments should be handled and there’s some hints about some huge plans for the summer and the World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• INEOS have to BACK Michael Carrick at Man United | Why Bruno’s record tops Henry’s and De Bruyne's 18.05.2026 29min

  As everyone awaits confirmation of Michael Carrick being named as Manchester United manager, Rio is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to discuss the reasons INEOS have finally backed him, whether the fanbase is truly united behind the decision and why Rio believes the club now has no choice but to fully commit to the ‘Carrick project’.The trio debate criticism around Carrick’s appointment, the idea he’s somehow landed the role “by default” and what his football identity actually is. Rio also insists Carrick “won’t give a s**t” about criticism from pundits like Roy Keane and Gary Neville, while Ste argues United barely have any genuinely pro-United voices left in mainstream punditry.There’s also huge praise for Casemiro following “Rio Meets Casemiro” and the standing ovation he received at Old Trafford, which leads Rio into a reflection on the Brazilian’s overall cost to Manchester United and whether his impact has justified the huge transfer fee and wages.Bruno Fernandes becomes another major talking point as the lads debate where he ranks amongst the Premier League’s modern greats. Rio argues Bruno deserves more respect because of the level of Manchester United teams he’s been carrying, while Ste explains why the club’s barren spell actually makes him even more valuable to supporters.The conversation also turns to Xabi Alonso’s shock move to Chelsea, with Ste calling him the most exciting coach in world football and Rio questioning why he didn’t wait for an opportunity to take over Arne Slot at Liverpool.Plus there’s insight into what Casemiro really thinks about Bruno behind the scenes and why Rio believes Fernandes would have taken Manchester United’s 2008 Champions League-winning side to another level. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Casemiro: Carrick Deserves This Job - He Reminds me of Ancelotti 13.05.2026 34min

  After the journey from the training ground where Casemiro discussed his career before joining Manchester United, on their arrival at Old Trafford, him and Rio discuss everything about his time in Manchester whilst sitting in the Stretford End and paying tribute to the supporters.From dealing with “disrespectful” comments from pundits to helping younger players like Kobbie Mainoo through difficult times, nothing is off limits here as Casemiro opens up and surprises Rio even more.The pair discuss the big moments like winning the Carabao Cup but also the difficult times Casemiro faced when he was out of the team - along with what’s actually required from players to be able to cope in those scenarios.There is a huge amount of praise for Michael Carrick - how Casemiro describes the way he operates reminds the Brazilian of Ancelotti and Rio of Sir Alex Ferguson!This is an interview like no other - enjoy seeing a different side to the player that is worshipped from the seats they’re sitting in. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Casemiro in my car! Why Gareth Bale was “most complete” Real Madrid Player | Neymar To WC26? 🇧🇷 12.05.2026 23min

  Rio picks Casemiro up from the Manchester United training ground to take him to Old Trafford where he’ll discuss his time at the club.But to make the most of the time spent with the Brazilian captain - Rio finds out so much about Casemiro’s life in Brazil, his hopes for the World Cup and how Carlo Ancelotti became his true friend (and how he still smokes in the dressing room when addressing the Brazilian players).There’s amazing detail about how he played alongside Luka Modric and Toni Kroos in that legendary midfield, their battles against Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets and the reasons Lionel Messi is ‘impossible’ to stop.You’ll hear which Real Madrid player Bruno Fernandes reminds Casemiro of and the similarities of playing under immense pressure at both Real and Manchester United.#MUFC #ManUtd #Casemiro #RioFerdinand #OldTrafford #GGMU #BrunoFernandes #UnitedRevolution #RedDevils#RealMadrid #HalaMadrid #Modric #Kroos #Ancelotti #ChampionsLeague #Bernabeu #TheTriangle #KMCMidfield#Messi #LionelMessi #FCBarcelona #Xavi #Iniesta #Busquets #ElClasico #FootballLegends#Brasil #Selecao #WorldCup #CopaDoMundo #Casemiro5 #BrazilianCaptain#RioMeets #Five #BehindTheScenes #FootballPodcast #SoccerStories #DressingRoomSecrets #FootballDebateSubscribe: http://bit.ly/15QO9WERio Ferdinand Presents: rioferdinandpresents.comRio Ferdinand Presents Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Twitter/X: https://x.com/RioMeetsRio Ferdinand Presents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Twitter/X: https://x.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RioFerdinandOfficialRio Ferdinand TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdy5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• People expecting too much of Manchester United and Michael Carrick 11.05.2026 44min

  Rio is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to break down Manchester United’s frustrating performance against Sunderland and why the reaction from some fans has gone completely over the top.While Ste labels the display “terrible”, Rio pushes back on the idea that one bad performance should suddenly end the discussion around Michael Carrick’s future - arguing that supporters are being disrespectful both to Sunderland and to the wider rebuilding process at Old Trafford.The trio also debate what United’s squad should look like moving forward, including which players Ste believes should leave the club, the recruitment strategy INEOS are finally getting right and why goalkeeper Lammens could end up winning the Players’ Player of the Year award.Rio also gives insight into the mentality needed inside elite dressing rooms after Aurélien Tchouaméni was fined for repeatedly striking team-mate Ernesto Valverde at Real Madrid - explaining why arguments between players are often a positive sign and revealing how former Rangers manager Walter Smith actively encouraged fights during training sessions during his time at Manchester United.There’s also a heated discussion around Bruno Fernandes winning the Football Writers’ Award over Declan Rice and Erling Haaland, with Rio insisting that football awards should be based on performances rather than sportsmanship or narratives.Plus Rio explains why Marcus Rashford could still be one of the bargains of the summer transfer window, why David Raya may have just won Arsenal the Premier League title and why he believes Arsenal could now be favourites for the Champions League.And as always, there’s chaos around VAR decisions, bizarre rule change suggestions and a typically fiery debate between Rio and Ste over what Manchester United fans should actually expect from this current team. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Michael Carrick doesn’t get enough credit for everything he’s dealt with at Man United 04.05.2026 41min

  Fresh from another victory over rivals Liverpool, Rio is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to discuss the performance of midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, the reasons people still don’t back Michael Carrick for the job and the way fans responded to Manchester United winning at Old Trafford.Rio and Ste drill down into what has changed in Kobbie Mainoo’s game since the departure of Ruben Amorim and the role that Carrick has played in that.Another young English player made a huge impact on Arsenal’s midfield at the weekend which leads Rio to say he’s “baffled” by the lack of opportunities that Myles Lewis-Skelly has been given this season.And then the trio spin the Carrick narrative on its head - instead of focusing on the things he’s not done or achieved as a manager - they detail all of the things that he has dealt with that doesn’t get enough credit.Plus, Rio fills the lads in on the latest about his spat with former England team mate Jamie Carragher. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Living With Ronaldo Was WAR… And I Was Doing His Weekly Shop! | Rio Meets Anderson 30.04.2026 46min

  Anderson sits down with Rio Ferdinand for one of the most honest and unexpected Rio Meets yet — a story that goes far beyond football and one that’s been requested by thousands of you for many years.From leaving home at 11 and living in a football stadium without any parents, to becoming a Golden Boy winner and signing for Manchester United via Jorge Mendes, Anderson opens up on the reality behind the journey - including why money, not passion, drove his early international career.He reveals what it was really like living with Cristiano Ronaldo - from brotherly support to full-blown arguments, mind games over ping pong matches and being sent to do the weekly Costco shop. Plus, why Ronaldo’s obsession with winning left a lasting mark… and why Anderson believes just “5%” of that mentality would have changed his entire career.There are incredible stories from what he described as “the greatest dressing room in football” - including why Ryan Giggs pushed him to take a Champions League final penalty, the moment his life flashed before his eyes walking to the spot, and how legends like Paul Scholes and Sir Alex Ferguson shaped him (even if he couldn’t understand a word the manager was saying).Anderson also lifts the lid on the personalities inside that iconic United squad - from naming his dog after Wes Brown, to clashes with Cesc Fàbregas, dressing room chaos with Nani, and why that team’s togetherness made them the best he ever played in.Plus, his honest take on modern football - including why Bruno Fernandes has carried United in recent years, why Michael Carrick deserves more respect, and why Neymar is still Brazil’s key to winning the World Cup.This is Anderson like you’ve never seen him before - raw, funny, emotional and completely unfiltered. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• How do you replace Casemiro at Man Utd? | People can’t be picky about performances 28.04.2026 36min

  Fresh off winning “YouTube Channel of the Year” at the British Sports Journalism Awards, Rio Ferdinand is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to break down Manchester United’s performance against Brentford and what it really says about this team.Casemiro’s record-breaking numbers spark a bigger debate: how do Manchester United replace him? And do those replacements have the mentality required to thrive under the pressure of Old Trafford?Rio also gives his honest take on Michael Carrick’s time as interim manager, the perception around his impact, and what it could mean for his future in terms of a more permanent role.Mainoo gets his flowers for his recent performances before Ste gets praised after key predictions on Liam Rosenior and Arsenal’s title race struggles come true. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• “I Should Have Done More…” Paul Pogba Gets Honest About Man Utd, Pressure & His Family 21.04.2026 1t 11min

  This is Paul Pogba like you’ve never seen him before.In one of his most open and honest conversations, Pogba sits down with Rio Ferdinand to talk through the moments that defined his career and the personal struggles that shaped the person behind the player.From growing up at Manchester United’s academy alongside (and fighting) Ravel Morrison, to learning from legends like Ryan Giggs, Paul Scholes and Rio himself, Pogba reveals what it really took to survive in one of football’s most demanding environments - and why he felt he had to leave when he did.He opens up on the reality of his second spell at Manchester United, the pressure of his world-record transfer fee, the lack of clarity or plan for his role in the team, and why he believes the environment at the club made it difficult to succeed.Pogba reveals that he did not know who Graeme Souness was until Rio gave him some detail on his career and achievements within the game which prompts a fascinating discussion about how he felt the media misunderstood him.But this conversation goes far deeper than football.Pogba speaks candidly about family issues, betrayal, and the emotional toll it took on him and those closest to him - including the impact it had on his mother. He also reflects on his time away from the game, the challenges of being out of football, and what it’s been like watching from the sidelines with his children asking when he’ll return.There are also powerful insights into his career highs — winning the World Cup with France, his relationship with stars such as Kylian Mbappé and how players like Andrea Pirlo, N’Golo Kanté and Antonio Conte helped elevate his game to another level.Plus:Why consistency of position is everything at the elite levelHis honest thoughts on Bruno Fernandes, Kobbie Mainoo, Kevin De Bruyne, Scott McTominay and modern midfield rolesThe truth about his relationship with José MourinhoAnd why he will never change who he isThis is a rare, unfiltered look at one of football’s most talked-about players - in his own words.📚 Chapters00:00 Rio Meets Paul Pogba03:34 Learning English Football08:11 First Team: Learning from Pros12:19 First Team Call-Up Delay ⏰16:20 Juventus: New Challenge20:12 Pogba's Contract Situation24:18 Best Midfield Partners Analysis29:44 Synergy with Kylian Mbappé33:17 Pogba's Best Man Utd Season37:01 Bruno Fernandes: City Impact ️40:47 Football: My Life, My Joy45:29 Mourinho's Training Methods49:03 Managerial Changes at United53:47 Scott McTominay's Success Story59:36 True Friends in Adversity01:03:25 Varane: Defensive Pillar ️01:07:27 Karim Benzema: Striker AnalysisSubscribe: http://bit.ly/15QO9WERio Ferdinand Presents: rioferdinandpresents.comRio Ferdinand Presents Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Twitter/X: https://x.com/RioMeetsRio Ferdinand Presents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Twitter/X: https://x.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RioFerdinandOfficialRio Ferdinand TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdy5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Cole Palmer Signing Would Help Bruno! | Give Carrick the Job 20.04.2026 42min

  Rio is joined by two former captains of Manchester United, Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra to analyse everything that’s happened at the club this season and look ahead to what needs to be put in place ahead of the next campaign.After Cole Palmer said he was happy at his club as long as there was Champions League football and Manchester United inflicted a damaging defeat in their pursuit of European football, Giggs has his say on whether Carrick should sign Cole Palmer from Chelsea.Evra warns the Manchester United hierarchy that they are in danger of “becoming Chelsea” if they don’t give Michael Carrick the job following his successful interim period in charge. Giggs also praises Carrick for the job that he’s done and comments on former team mates’ negativity around his appointment.The trio also look at the title run-in and the differences between Mikel Arteta and Pep Guardiola and their approach to this crucial time of the season.Giggs picks out his favourite wingers in today’s game and Evra reveals how he developed the relationship with Giggs and why the club legend is his “favourite” player that he played with.OrRio is joined by two former captains of Manchester United, Ryan Giggs and Patrice Evra to analyse everything that’s happened at the club this season and look at the title race.After Arsenal couldn’t get past Manchester City in their crucial match - Evra details what he thinks the problems are at the club and Giggs details how Mikel Arteta should look to overcome them in the remaining games.Evra almost walks out of the recording when discussing Theo Walcott’s comparison of the ’08 Man Utd team with the current Arsenal side and Rio asks whether Bruno Fernandes would get a start in any of Gigg’s teams from his time at the club.After Cole Palmer said he was happy at his club as long as there was Champions League football and Manchester United inflicted a damaging defeat in their pursuit of European football, Giggs has his say on whether Carrick should sign Cole Palmer from Chelsea.Evra warns the Manchester United hierarchy that they are in danger of “becoming Chelsea” if they don’t give Michael Carrick the job following his successful interim period in charge. Giggs also praises Carrick for the job that he’s done and comments on former team mates’ negativity around his appointment.📚 Chapters00:00 Rio Presents w/Giggs and Evra04:27 Carrick's Managerial Role07:55 Manager Candidates Debate ️10:50 Man United Squad Depth Needs13:01 Man United Player Expectations15:12 Man United Player Character18:08 Kobbie Mainoo's Potential20:53 Casemiro's United Tenure24:22 Ryan Giggs: A Role Model27:30 Bruno Fernandes' Impact30:57 Momentum in Sports Leagues35:12 Arteta's Critical Season Test37:31 Dembele's Unique Skill Set40:33 France's Talented Squad DepthSubscribe: http://bit.ly/15QO9WERio Ferdinand Presents: rioferdinandpresents.comRio Ferdinand Presents Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Twitter/X: https://x.com/RioMeetsRio Ferdinand Presents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Twitter/X: https://x.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RioFerdinandOfficialRio Ferdinand TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdy5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Arsenal Crumble? Man City Smash Chelsea as the Title Race Blows Open! Rio & Ste Tease JoeL 12.04.2026 48min

  Welcome back to Rio Presents, brought to you by CRAFTD.We’re live and direct after a huge weekend in the title race, with plenty to get into following Manchester City’s clash with Chelsea and another frustrating chapter for Arsenal. The conversation starts with a closer look at the impact of half-time decisions, and how the contrast between Pep Guardiola and Mikel Arteta is becoming more and more evident when games are on the line.Rio also reflects on dressing room moments from his own career, revealing how the right message at half-time can completely transform a team’s performance. From there, the focus shifts to some of the standout players driving City forward this season, including the unpredictable brilliance of Ryan Cherki, the incredible output from Nico O’Reilly at left-back, and the growing influence of Marc Guehi during this crucial stage of the campaign.As always, we dive into the stats behind the story, comparing City and Arsenal’s attacking numbers and asking serious questions about where things are going wrong for Arteta’s side. With teams seemingly finding a blueprint to disrupt Arsenal’s build-up play, we explore whether the rest of the league is starting to catch on, and what that means for their title hopes.There’s plenty of debate throughout the show, including fan questions on everything from recent criticism around key players to the bigger picture at Arsenal, and even whether this could be a defining moment for Arteta’s future at the club. We also touch on wider talking points across the game, including Chelsea, Liverpool, and standout performers across Europe.To round things off, there’s a quick look at Roberto De Zerbi’s difficult start at Tottenham, plus a well-deserved shoutout to one of the young talents we’ve been backing on the podcast, Rio Ngumoha, after a special moment at Anfield.Get involved in the comments with your thoughts, and don’t forget to like and subscribe to stay up to date with everything on Rio Presents.#RioPresents #Football #PremierLeague #ManCity #ManchesterCity #ChelseaFC #Arsenal #ArsenalFC #MikelArteta #PepGuardiola #TitleRace #FootballAnalysis #SoccerTalk #FootballPodcast #RyanCherki #MarcGuehi #ErlingHaaland #BukayoSaka #DeclanRice #Trossard #Gyokeres #FootballDebate #FanQnA #SoccerNews #FootballFans #YouTubeFootball #FootballContent #TrendingFootball #Anfield #Tottenham #DeZerbi #YoungTalent #FootballDiscussionSubscribe: http://bit.ly/15QO9WERio Ferdinand Presents: rioferdinandpresents.comRio Ferdinand Presents Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Twitter/X: https://x.com/RioMeetsRio Ferdinand Presents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Twitter/X: https://x.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RioFerdinandOfficialRio Ferdinand TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdy5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Reasons Man Utd need to sign Elliot Anderson and Dutch Wonderkid 06.04.2026 43min

  As attention switches back to the Premier League and Manchester United’s Champions League qualification - Rio is joined by Ste Howson and Joel Beya to discuss the midfield and how it needs to be improved in the transfer window along with a potential signing from Holland that nobody is talking about.There’s discussion about Arsenal’s title run-in after a shock defeat to Championship side Southampton. After Max Dowman was the Gunners’ stand-out performer in that match, Rio goes into detail of how he should be protected and utilised by his manager Mikel Arteta.There’s a European player that’s reminding Rio of why he fell in love with football - plus you’ll hear why Rio brands Marcus Rashford’s potential transfer to Barcelona as a “robbery”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Why Arsenal fans should believe | Ranking Vini Jr, Neymar and Saka | Truth about Pep 02.04.2026 1t 7min

  Rio Meets is where the biggest names in football tell the stories you’ve never heard before and in this episode Gabriel Jesus sits down with Rio Ferdinand for one of his most open and revealing interviews yet.From growing up in a favela playing football outside a prison, to sharing a dressing room with legends at Manchester City, Jesus reflects on the journey that shaped him — both as a player and a person.When discussing Arsenal’s title challenge, Jesus describes the difference in leadership between Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice along with the two young players who are “killers” in training who expects big things from.He lifts the lid on working under Pep Guardiola - including the tactical demands, the intensity in training, and the one thing Pep tries to coach out of all the Brazilian players.Jesus also reveals how he developed his bond with Neymar and why he thinks he’s the greatest player of his generation.There are also incredible insights into elite dressing rooms, from Vincent Kompany’s leadership to Sergio Agüero’s mentality, plus Jesus’ ultimate 5-a-side team. This is a conversation about football at the highest level — but more importantly, about mindset, identity and what it really takes to win.👇 Let us know your thoughts in the comments and who you want Rio to sit down with next!00:00 Intro: The boy from Brazil01:14 Meeting Gabriel Jesus01:29 Growing up in the Favelas: My first football02:31 Playing at the Police Complex: More than just a game03:56 The loss of passion in modern Brazilian football05:16 The greatness of Neymar Jr.07:27 Dealing with pressure in Brazil vs. England09:02 When ex-players talk: Impact on the dressing room11:35 Arriving at Man City: Meeting Pep & legends13:16 Pep’s "Best Striker-Defender": Sacrificing for the team14:31 Creating chaos: The role of the modern No. 916:42 How the game has changed in 10 years18:55 Does Pep Guardiola allow freedom?21:16 Coaching specifics: "Don't use your studs!"23:10 The unpredictability of playing for Pep25:16 Vincent Kompany: A manager in the making27:11 Rio’s most under-appreciated teammates29:22 The Mikel Arteta effect at Arsenal31:01 The mental shift: From 2nd place to Champions33:54 Dressing room leaders: Declan Rice & Martin Ødegaard36:05 Why modern squads need 22 captains37:07 Training with Declan Rice: "The Horse"40:23 Bukayo Saka: Humble, strong, and elite42:38 Comparison: Saka vs. Vinícius & Rodrygo44:21 The next generation: Max Dowman & Ethan Nwaneri47:51 Dark moments: Dealing with long-term injury50:28 Nutrition and lifestyle changes51:41 Finding faith: Baptism and perspective54:00 The life of a footballer: Missing major family moments55:46 Gabby Heinze: The "crazy" coach at Arsenal57:12 Defending Arsenal’s set-piece "dark arts"01:01:44 Final prediction: Will Arsenal win the league?01:02:45 Picking the Ultimate 5-A-Side Team (No Keepers)#RioFerdinand #GabrielJesus #Arsenal #ManchesterCity #PremierLeagueSubscribe: http://bit.ly/15QO9WERio Ferdinand Presents: rioferdinandpresents.comRio Ferdinand Presents Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Twitter/X: https://x.com/RioMeetsRio Ferdinand Presents Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Presents Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdinandpresentsRio Ferdinand Instagram: https://instagram.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Twitter/X: https://x.com/rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RioFerdinandOfficialRio Ferdinand TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rioferdy5Rio Ferdinand Threads: https://www.threads.net/@rioferdy5 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Rio Picks His England XI… Mainoo over Anderson and Rashford starts too 30.03.2026 44min

  With only 90 minutes of international football before Thomas Tuchel names his England World Cup squad, Rio Ferdinand sits down with Joel Beya and Ste Howson to break down the real decisions facing England - and it’s not as straightforward as people think.From inside insight into the England camp, to the big calls Thomas Tuchel has to make, you’ll hear Rio pick his starting XI for the important knockout matches and the truth about Trent Alexander-Arnold’s absence from the squad.There’s analysis on whether Harry Maguire really is England’s 5th choice central defender (behind Trevor Chalobah) and why Luis Enrique’s impact on Ousmane Dembele will help France in the summer.Rio also reveals why he would not go to Tottenham if he was Roberto De Zerbi and which African sides could cause surprises at the World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Gabriel Batistuta: Maradona v Messi + My part in Diego’s Demise 25.03.2026 37min

  One of the most iconic goalscorers sits down with Rio to reveal what made him so lethal as an Argentina and Serie A number 9.Having shared a dressing room and friendship with the legendary Diego Maradona, Batistuta reveals what it was like for team mates and managers to share a dressing room and feed off his persona.Batistuta gives some amazing insight into the life of Maradona and how his upbringing led to an extraordinary life of fame and success both on and off the pitch before a sad demise.After comparing Maradona to Lionel Messi, Batistuta names the three world strikers that impress him the most in today’s game and also reveals how and injury and resulting pain in his ankle made him ask a surgeon to amputate it.Thankfully, he was able to overcome that pain and now sits down with Rio to show a side of his character that few have ever seen - including a discussion where they both dissect each other’s games after Rio admitted ‘Batigol’ was the first “iconic” striker he faced - in the 2002 World Cup. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• Mo Salah To Leave Liverpool | Where does the ‘Egyptian King’ rank among LFC greats? 25.03.2026 11min

  From 255 goals to unforgettable Champions League nights, Salah has cemented himself as one of the greatest players in Liverpool history. But with declining form, behind-the-scenes tension, and major financial decisions, the club has agreed to an early exit.In this video, we break down:🔥 The official announcement of Salah’s departure📉 His recent drop in form⚠️ The drama with manager Arne Slot🏆 His incredible Liverpool legacy🌍 Where he could go next (Saudi? MLS?)💰 Why Liverpool made this shocking decision🔄 What’s next for the clubThis isn’t just a transfer… it’s the end of the Mohamed Salah era at Liverpool. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• The difference between Pep and Arteta? Success and Sentiment! 23.03.2026 51min

  Rio is joined by Joel Beya and Ste Howson to analyse Arsenal’s defeat to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup Final where they pay particular attention to Mikel Arteta’s decision to stick with number 2 goalkeeper Kepa.Rio reveals why he thought that was a big mistake both tactically and in terms of the mentality it showed. There is a defence of Declan Rice who Rio believes “couldn’t do his job” because of the lack of service and praise for Pep Guardiola’s tactics that may have shown other Premier League opponents how to overcome Arteta’s Arsenal.The trio all believe that Tottenham might be playing their football in the Championship next season and after a frustrating draw with Bournemouth - Ste and Rio lay out what the priorities should be for Manchester United to address in the summer if they are to compete in the Champions League.Rio makes another plea for Danny Welbeck to be picked in the World Cup squad for England and he also reveals the release of an extra special Gabriel Batistuta interview where the Argentinian legend divulges some incredible detail about Rio’s idol - Diego Maradona. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
• People Saying Carrick Has No Charisma Don’t Know What They’re On About! 16.03.2026 50min

  Rio is joined by Ste and Joel for the episode which discusses how Bruno Fernandes is moving into Ronaldo and Messi territory with his unbelievable numbers at Manchester United.Rio mounts a defence of former team mate Michael Carrick after people suggested his perceived lack of “charisma” is a reason that he shouldn’t get the permanent manager's role in the summer.You’ll also hear why Rio would “one million percent” take Max Dowman to the World Cup after he became the Premier League’s youngest goalscorer and why he is already surpassing the likes of Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen who gained huge reputations at a similar age. The trio also look at the potential impact of Dowman’s rising star on club captain Martin Odegaard.There’s analysis of Liam Rosenior’s time in charge of Chelsea after it was revealed only 3 managers have a better points tally since he took over and Rio reveals why he “HATES” team huddles.And Ste gave a Stretford Paddock debut to a Premier League winner and reveals what it’s like for the other players in non-league to share a pitch with someone of that quality. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.