3 expensive Manchester United defenders who were successful at Old Trafford

Rio Ferdinand

Like Harry Maguire now, Rio Ferdinand joined Manchester United as the most expensive defender in the world. United paid £30 million in 2002 to rivals Leeds United to secure his services while fans wondered if he was worth the money. 17 years later, it is only fair to say, not only was he worth the money spent, but he has had the most successful career at the Theatre of dreams of all the players that played ahead of the keeper.

As was mentioned before, Ferdinand formed a potent combo with Vidic. Where Vidic was forceful, Ferdinand was graceful and hardly ever looked in a hurry. He was often compared to Milan great, Maldini, due to the elegance he had in his. Ferdinand is considered one of the greatest players to have played for England and has had a decorated career at Old Trafford.

Ferdinand won six Premier League titles and 14 trophies in total with United which also includes a champions league trophy. He featured in the PFA team of the year, 4 times in 5 years. Ferdinand gave United 12 years and played for them 312 times. It is a career very few can match and it is for this reason, he is Manchester United’s greatest ever defensive signing.

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