Rio Ferdinand highlights 3 stars who are helping MU improve, with 2 of them being new signings

11/11/2025 08:52:00 ScoreStream

Former legendary defender Rio Ferdinand has praised three players playing key roles in Manchester United's recent impressive run under coach Ruben Amorim: Matthijs de Ligt, Bryan Mbeumo, and Senne Lammens.

After a challenging start to the season, MU is steadily regaining its form. The Old Trafford team is currently unbeaten in 5 consecutive Premier League matches, rising to 7th place in the standings. Ferdinand believes this resurgence is not the work of a single player but the collective effort, with the three stars mentioned making a clear difference.

On the program Rio Ferdinand Presents, the former English star said: "I don’t think MU has one most crucial player at the moment. But if I had to pick those who have the biggest influence, it would be De Ligt, Mbeumo, and Lammens. Matthijs de Ligt has been our best center-back this season. Not only is he solid defensively, but he also knows how to score."

Ferdinand stressed that De Ligt is demonstrating a modern defensive style, actively pressing and unafraid to engage in duels far from the goal. "The way he sweeps the ball and intercepts plays inside the penalty box is truly remarkable. He’s a genuine leader," Ferdinand added.

The two newcomers Bryan Mbeumo and Senne Lammens have had an immediate impact on MU

Moreover, Ferdinand showered praise on Bryan Mbeumo, the £65 million signing from Brentford. "He’s truly an excellent signing. Mbeumo holds onto the ball well, creates time for teammates to organize attacks, and knows how to both score and assist. I read Thomas Frank’s comment calling him 'a complete winger,' and I believe by the end of the season, Mbeumo will be one of the best wingers in the Premier League," Ferdinand said.

Joining MU last summer, Mbeumo quickly settled in, scoring 6 goals in 12 games, including an important goal against Tottenham last weekend. However, MU will have to temporarily part ways with him during the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as he returns to represent his national team.

The third name Ferdinand mentioned is Senne Lammens, the 23-year-old goalkeeper who joined from Royal Antwerp for £21.7 million. Initially, he was a backup option for Altay Bayindir, but after being given a chance, Lammens has earned the full confidence of coach Amorim and his teammates.

"You can’t discuss MU’s progress without acknowledging the goalkeeper’s role," Ferdinand affirmed. "It’s no coincidence that the team’s improved form coincides with having a keeper everyone trusts."

Coach Ruben Amorim also admitted that the current stability comes from important personnel changes. However, he expressed concern about losing Mbeumo during the Christmas period and indicated that MU might need to consider strengthening the squad in the January transfer window.

"We anticipated this, but the coming period will definitely be challenging," Amorim said after the 2-2 draw with Tottenham. "Let’s wait and see if we can add new players once the market opens to sustain our progress."

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