From Manchester United legend to media mogul: Rio Ferdinand reveals he’s now earning nearly double his peaks playing salary

Rio Ferdinand has revealed that he is now earning almost twice as much as he did during his peak years at Manchester United, as the former England defender transforms himself into a major player in the media industry.

The 47-year-old, who won six Premier League titles under Sir Alex Ferguson, made the disclosure on The Long Play Podcast — a show created by journalist Jordan Macauley that promises to “interview the biggest people in sport to learn how they built their empires”.

Asked by Macauley: “In which year did you make the most money?” Ferdinand replied without hesitation: “Probably the last few years.”

During the 90-minute episode, Ferdinand opened up about the highs and lows of his transition from one of the world’s best-paid footballers to one of sport’s most recognisable digital media personalities.

From £6m a year to even more

At his peak between 2008 and 2013, Ferdinand was earning between £115,000 and £120,000 per week — roughly £6 million a year — as a cornerstone of Ferguson’s dominant United side.

According to The Richest, his net worth is now estimated at around £57 million, built from a combination of his playing career and a growing portfolio of post-football ventures spanning television, online content, endorsements, and business interests.

Building an empire

Central to Ferdinand’s success is Rio Ferdinand Presents, his own podcast and digital content brand. Unlike many of his contemporaries who remain tied to major external production companies, Ferdinand owns the operation outright — giving him greater control over both its creative direction and its financial rewards.

Launched in August 2024, the show consistently ranks inside the UK’s top 50 most-listened-to sports and football podcasts, featuring interviews with some of the biggest names in world football — including Bruno Fernandes, Casemiro, and Paul Pogba — thanks largely to Ferdinand’s extensive contact book.

Beyond the microphone

Ferdinand’s business interests stretch well beyond podcasting. He is an investor in New Era Global Sports Management, a UK-based football agency, and continues charitable work through the Rio Ferdinand Foundation.

He is also a partner with LEOS Developments, a luxury property developer in Dubai, and owns Dubai-based company Football Escape — which promises to “enjoy football in style in Dubai, with luxurious resorts, desert adventures, and endless entertainment”. The Ferdinand family is now based in the city.

Reflecting on his journey from the heart of United’s defence to the boardrooms of Dubai, Ferdinand’s story offers a rare glimpse into how modern athletes are redefining what comes after the final whistle.