Manchester United icon Rio Ferdinand has pinpointed the two players he believes were solely responsible for 'hauling' the club to a stunning FA Cup final victory against arch-rivals Manchester City.
In a candid episode of his acclaimed 'FIVE' podcast, the former England defender didn't hold back in his assessment of a turbulent season for the Red Devils, but was effusive in his praise for two standout performers.
Fernandes & Mainoo: The Wembley Architects
Ferdinand lavished praise on captain Bruno Fernandes and teenage sensation Kobbie Mainoo, identifying their leadership and composure as the decisive factors in United's shock 2-1 win at Wembley.
'They were the two main guys who hauled this team over the line in the final,' Ferdinand declared. 'The personality and the character to perform in those big moments… they stood up when it mattered most.'
He highlighted the duo's immense mental strength to perform under intense pressure against a dominant City side, effectively carrying the team to silverware and potentially saving manager Erik ten Hag's job.
A Season Saved by Silverware
The FA Cup triumph provided a glorious finale to what was otherwise a dismal Premier League campaign for United, who recorded their lowest-ever finish in the competition's history.
Ferdinand's analysis suggests that without the contributions of Fernandes and Mainoo, the club could have been staring at a completely trophyless and disastrous season, heaping even more pressure on the Dutch manager and the club's hierarchy.
The victory secures Manchester United a coveted spot in the Europa League for the next season, offering a crucial consolation prize and a vital financial boost after their poor league performance.
Ten Hag's Future & Ferdinand's Verdict
The podcast also delved into the intense speculation surrounding Erik ten Hag's future at Old Trafford. Ferdinand implied that the FA Cup win, masterminded by his two star players, has given the club's owners a monumental decision to make.
This victory, built on the backs of Fernandes and Mainoo, has provided a compelling argument for the Dutchman to remain in charge, despite the league woes.
Ferdinand's expert breakdown offers a unique insight into how individual brilliance can rescue an entire campaign, turning potential disaster into tangible success and providing a glimmer of hope for the future.
