Rio Ferdinand: 'Europe is a long shot for Man Utd right now, team isn't progressing'

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand has admitted he fears his former club may not qualify for European competition this season, following their stuttering start under Rúben Amorim.

United slumped to a 3-0 defeat in Sunday’s Manchester derby, leaving them with just four points from their opening four league games and sitting in the bottom half of the table.

For Ferdinand, the early signs are worrying, with little evidence that the team is ready to challenge for a top-four finish, let alone fight for the Premier League title.

“You can’t hide from it — right now, Europe looks a long shot for United,” Ferdinand said. “The performances aren’t there, the results aren’t there, and the team doesn’t look like it’s progressing.”

United’s issues are well-documented: defensive frailties, a lack of control in midfield, and a forward line still struggling to find rhythm.

New signing Benjamin Šeško has yet to make a significant impact, while injuries to Matheus Cunha and others have limited attacking options. Ferdinand suggested that without immediate improvement, the season could quickly slip away.

“This is Manchester United — expectations are high. But what we’re seeing is a side still trying to figure itself out. Unless Amorim can turn it around soon, I don’t see how they keep up with teams fighting for Europe.”

The defeat to City also underlined United’s lack of composure in big matches, something Ferdinand argued separates elite teams from those in transition. While he stopped short of calling for managerial change, he emphasised that consistency must arrive quickly.

Amorim, however, has doubled down on his tactical approach, insisting he will not abandon his preferred system. The club hierarchy has also voiced its support, stressing that the manager needs time to implement his long-term vision.

Still, Ferdinand warned that patience among fans may not last forever if results don’t improve.

United now face a crucial run of fixtures where they must demonstrate resilience and find a winning formula. Anything less, Ferdinand believes, will leave European football slipping further out of reach.