Former Man utd star reveals wheelchair use due to Football injuries

Rio Ferdinand, the former Man United defender and England international, has disclosed that he now has to use a wheelchair because of injuries sustained during his football career. The 47‑year‑old star said the episodes of severe back pain can leave him confined to a wheelchair for a couple of days, a situation he described as "mad" and unexpected.

From the pitch to the newsroom

Ferdinand joined the online sports outlet VAVEL in April 2024 as Deputy Editor‑in‑Chief, producing a range of content from press‑conference briefings to match reports. During his tenure he earned an award for his leadership of the Women’s Football section, highlighting his commitment to the women’s game.

Covering football across Europe, he has reported from iconic venues such as Anfield, Old Trafford in Trafford, and Dortmund’s Signal Iduna Park. He was also on‑site for both the 2023 men’s and women’s Champions League finals in Eindhoven and Istanbul, underscoring his breadth of experience.

A defender’s body pays the price

Throughout his playing days Ferdinand logged almost 600 appearances, yet he suffered only eleven reported injuries – a modest tally for a centre‑back. The longest spell out came in the 2009/10 season when back problems forced him to miss two months and fifteen matches, and he missed ten further games after three similar setbacks.

He explained, "I’ve had a bad back for a long time. I get some bad moments of back pain where I have to be in a hospital for a couple of days or in a wheelchair for a couple of days. It’s mad, but it just comes out of nowhere." Here he added that he is now seeing a physio for the first time since retirement, adopting a holistic approach that includes a personal trainer.

Life beyond the stadium

Beyond the physical challenges, Ferdinand remains active in media, punditry and family life. He moved to Dubai with his five children last year, hoping his work ethic and healthy habits inspire them. Like many former players, he now values prevention over treatment, saying, "Rather than fixing it when it’s broken, you actually prevent injuries."

He admits to being an avid Buffalo Bills supporter from across the pond and a darts‑newbie, interests that keep him engaged beyond football. Now his weekly routine includes regular gym sessions, which he says are vital for both physical and mental sanity.