London: Rio Ferdinand has confirmed that he will leave Manchester United during the close-season.
The 35-year-old has lost his place in the United team over the last two years due to a series of injuries and it had been widely expected the former England defender would be allowed to quit Old Trafford at the end of this season.
Ferdinand’s contract expires in July and he has revealed he will not be signing an extension after regularly being left out as Phil Jones, Jonny Evans and Chris Smalling have been preferred to him this term.
Ferdinand made his last appearance for United on Sunday when he played in the 1-1 draw at Southampton on the final day of the EPL.
His departure brings an end to a glorious 12-year stay at United, during which time he won six league titles, two League Cups, one Champions League and a Club World Cup.
Ferdinand made 454 appearances, scoring eight goals, following his transfer from Leeds in 2002.
The ex-England captain has no desire to retire and is now looking for a new club. (AFP)
