Rio Ferdinand says Jude Bellingham will only sign for Manchester United if he wants the challenge
Jude Bellingham led England’s victory over Iran by scoring the opening goal in the 6-2 win, confirming his arrival as a star on the world stage.
Bellingham is the Three Lions wonderkid starring for German side Borussia Dortmund, after Manchester United tried and failed to sign him in 2020.
The midfielder is a player United would love to sign still – as would every big side in Europe.
Rio Ferdinand spoke to Vibe With Five
after England’s win over Iran, and was asked whether he believes Bellingham would join Manchester United. He had a lukewarm response.
Ferdinand responded: “I actually think put yourself in Jude Bellingham’s shoes now… City are going to be in for him, Real Madrid probably be in for him, they are all going to be, Barca, Bayern will be in for him.
“There’s too much work to be done at United, its whether he thinks ‘you know what I can be the catalyst to pull this club back to where it should be’.
“That’s the only way he goes if he says that in his own mind, ‘I can be that guy’, if he think he can be that guy then Man United’s the club for him, but I don’t see him taking that decision.”
Bellingham will have the pick of Europe’s top clubs next summer, and while United will be one who may be able to afford him, convincing him will be tough.
That’s why it is important Erik ten Hag’s side remain on an upward trajectory. What we have seen this season has been strong, United have a sense of direction again, and this is a team players are enjoying playing for – with Cristiano Ronaldo the one exception.
Ronaldo’s impending exit will pull the squad even closer together, and Erik ten Hag’s recruitment will be focused on players who want to play for the club.
If that turns out to be Bellingham, then great. But if not, Ten Hag will make sure he signs players whoaredesperate to play for him, and won’t waste his time on those who are not.
