Rio Ferdinand and Jamie Carragher have not been afraid to lock horns in recent years
A look at Jamie Carragher’s bitter feud with Rio Ferdinand in recent years
- Cristiano Ronaldo clash: During a discussion about Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence at Manchester United following his return to the club, Ferdinand openly backed Roy Keane in 2022 against Carragher during a fiery Sky Sports exchange, posting on social media: “Carragher, stop arguing about league titles with a man that’s won multiple league titles!” Carragher responded, claiming Ferdinand had orchestrated the Ronaldo transfer and questioning his allegiance by referencing Ferdinand’s attempted move to Chelsea when United’s title wins dried up. Carragher subsequently branded Ferdinand as Ronaldo’s “fan boy” and suggested he was part of a “group WhatsApp” that prompts him to defend the player.
- Saudi Pro League controversy: In 2023, Ferdinand challenged Carragher over his silence following Steven Gerrard’s appointment as Al-Ettifaq manager in the Saudi Pro League, whilst Carragher had previously criticised the league for purchasing players. Carragher rejected the claim he’d criticised the players, stating he’d only condemned the league’s efforts to “buy football,” and alleged Ferdinand had declined to present the BBC’s World Cup opening match in Qatar to avoid criticising his “paymaster.”
- ‘Clown’ penalty remark: During a 2023 Champions League semi-final between Inter Milan and AC Milan, Carragher ridiculed Ferdinand for insisting a disputed penalty decision was “stonewall” (despite VAR overturning it). Carragher declared: “I’m happy to call him a clown.”
- AFCON comments: It was earlier this year when Carragher suggested the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) doesn’t carry enough clout with Ballon d’Or award voters, implying players from African countries may need to focus more on club success. Ferdinand labelled Carragher’s comments as “ignorant,” arguing that AFCON should be given greater respect and that Carragher’s perspective mirrors a prevailing opinion that is “not right.”
- Mohamed Salah quarrel: Just days after Mohamed Salah’s outburst at Elland Road, Carragher penned that Liverpool supporters will always side with a title-winning manager over a star player. The Egyptian made his comeback against Brighton on Saturday in the 26th minute following Joe Gomez’s injury, entering the pitch to the sound of his name being chanted and his song being sung. This triumphant return prompted Rio Ferdinand to take to X and tag Carragher, asking for his views on the Kop chanting Salah’s song.
