Ferdinand says Arsenal star who’s so ‘efficient’ should’ve been playing for Man United this season

Rio Ferdinand would’ve loved to see Ezri Konsa donning a Manchester United shirt rather than an Arsenal one this season.

The defender joined the Gunners back in August in a £55 million switch from Aston Villa on a four-year deal.

How Konsa has been faring since swapping AVFC for AFC

He was brought in to reinforce Mikel Arteta’s solid backline following confirmation that William Saliba would miss the opening months of the campaign through injury.

Yet, Saliba’s absence has hardly been felt at the Emirates due to Konsa’s marvellous form, as he has settled in seamlessly in North London.

Of the 10 starts that the England international has made across all competitions in 2026/2027, his side have kept six clean sheets and overseen eight wins.

Konsa started and played the full 90 minutes at Anfield on Sunday as Arsenal secured their first win at the stadium in a whopping 14 years.

The 29-year-old won 100 per cent of his ground duels attempted and four tackles, as well as making eight clearances and five ball recoveries.

What Ferdinand had to say about Konsa

When Saliba returns, Konsa’s versatility means he will still be in contention to retain his starting spot due to his ability to play at right-back – and Ferdinand thinks that will be the case.

“I said to my son yesterday, “watch Ezri Konsa”, because everything he does is efficient. That’s a great problem for Mikel Arteta to have,” said the former United star on his podcast.

“I wouldn’t be surprised if Konsa goes back to right-back once Saliba comes back. I wouldn’t be surprised because Konsa is top.

“He’s a top, top player and another one I thought Manchester United should have got.”

United are planning to orchestrate a complete defensive revamp next year after prioritising the frontline and the midfield in the last two summer windows, so it remains to be seen what kind of names they’ll be able to bring in to compete with the likes of the Gunners