Why is Rio Ferdinand leaving TNT Sports? Everything we know

So Saturday's final between and will signify the end of an era. Ten years after he first joined BT Sport, now TNT Sports, as a football pundit, Rio Ferdinand will walk away from his role with the broadcaster following the clash in Munich.

The 46-year-old . Ferdinand, who won the Champions League with Manchester United in 2008, has also been prominent on coverage of the Europa League, , and domestic cup competitions. However, he will still have platforms to share his views on the game through his own YouTube channel.

Express Sport looks at what we know so far about Ferdinand's departure...

What has Ferdinand and TNT said?

In a statement on X, Ferdinand attributed his decision to family reasons and other work commitments, writing: "Since retiring from football, it has been a privilege talking about the game I love for a decade. I want to acknowledge the tremendous support from the team behind the scenes, whose hard work often goes unseen but has been essential to our success.

"As I turn the page to the next chapter, I carry with me countless memories. I am excited about what the future holds - spending more time with my family, focusing on Rio Ferdinand Presents and my other business interests."

According to the Telegraph, TNT chiefs described the split as "an amicable parting of the ways." Ferdinand reportedly turned down the offer of a contract extension in March, which implies he was in no way forced out by the broadcaster.

His business interests

The ex-England player's YouTube channel, Rio Ferdinand Presents, already has 1.32million subscribers. He has also launched his own clothing line, FIVE, in collaboration with retailer Sports Direct.

His portfolio of business interests doesn't end there, though. His management company, New Era, has signed a partnership with Beverly Hills-based talent agency giants William Morris Endeavor (WME).

Moving to Dubai

Another driving factor behind his decision to quit appears to be his intention to move abroad. The Sun have reported that Ferdinand and his wife Kate, who married in 2019, now plan to move to Duai, a city in the United Arab Emirates.

The pair first met there on holiday in 2016 and are said to have already looked at properties and schools. The couple have two young daughters together, while Ferdinand also has three other children from his previous marriage.

Fan criticism

Ferdinand's decision hasn't been met with universal disappointment. He and co-commentator Robbie Savage were heavily criticised for their punditry second leg win over Lyon.

The pair made no secret of their support for their former club as they fought back to prevail 7-6 on aggregate, with Savage later defending their behaviour. It wasn't the first time viewers have taken aim at Ferdinand's offerings during United matches.

Health scare

Ferdinand was unable to cover Arsenal's Champions League trip to PSG last month . He later confirmed he had been struck by a serious virus, although there has been no mention of ill-health or fatigue playing a part in his decision.

Who will replace Ferdinand?

TNT Sports are yet to confirm a direct replacement for Ferdinand, although Gareth Bale appears a favoured contender after appearing on their coverage of Tottenham's Europa League final win against United. Their pattern of employing former high-profile footballers suggests the ex- man is a prime candidate.