Rio Ferdinand has secured a freelance arrangement with Manchester United after departing TNT Sports at the end of the previous season.
The 46-year-old former England captain participated in the club's recent American tour, accompanying Ruben Amorim's squad to New Jersey, Chicago and Atlanta during the Premier League Summer Series.
Ferdinand's involvement extended beyond mere appearances, as he fulfilled promotional obligations with several of United's corporate partners.
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He also featured prominently in media productions, conducting player interviews and contributing to matchday coverage under a temporary contract.
Rio Ferdinand will be working with his former club on a freelance basis
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The arrangement marks a significant development for Ferdinand, who retired from professional football in 2015, but has sustained positive connections with his former club throughout the intervening decade.
United's engagement of Ferdinand operates on what the club describes as an "ad hoc basis", with no formal staff position or permanent contract in place. The club expects to continue requesting his services for both commercial ventures and media projects in the months ahead.
The positive reception of Ferdinand's contributions during the American tour has made future collaborations "likely", according to those familiar with the arrangement.
His responsibilities mirror those undertaken by Gary Neville, who maintains a comparable freelance relationship with the club.
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The pundit left his job at TNT Sports earlier this year
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Neville's informal association with United is expected to continue alongside Ferdinand's involvement.
Both former players represent a model whereby the club can access expertise and profile without committing to full-time employment arrangements.
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Welsh football legend Gareth Bale will take Ferdinand's place at TNT Sports for the 2025/26 season. The former Tottenham star will provide analysis for both Premier League and Champions League fixtures throughout the campaign.
Bale joins an established punditry team that includes Peter Crouch and Joe Cole, who will work alongside him during TNT's Saturday afternoon Premier League coverage.
Rio Ferdinand played most of his career at Manchester United
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The broadcaster's roster of experts remains strong, with Owen Hargreaves, Steve McManaman, Ally McCoist and Karen Carney continuing in their roles as leading analysts.
The appointment represents a significant coup for TNT Sports, securing the services of one of British football's most decorated players to fill the vacancy left by Ferdinand's departure.