Rio Ferdinand says Man United should regret missing out on Arsenal star Ezri Konsa

Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes his former club made a costly mistake by failing to sign Ezri Konsa, following the defender’s impressive start to life at Arsenal.

Ferdinand has singled out the England international as a player United should have pursued, arguing that his defensive quality and versatility would have provided a significant boost to a side struggling at the back.

Arsenal secured Konsa in a deal worth around £51 million after opening negotiations with Aston Villa in July, before the 28-year-old completed his move to the Emirates Stadium in August.

Several Premier League clubs were reportedly interested in the defender, with Manchester United among those linked as they sought to address their defensive shortcomings. However, the Red Devils did not make a formal move for the former Villa player.

That decision has come under scrutiny following Konsa’s seamless integration into Mikel Arteta’s defence, where he has demonstrated his ability to operate both centrally and at right-back.

United, meanwhile, have continued to struggle defensively, conceding 15 goals in nine matches and leaving Ferdinand questioning why the club did not make a stronger attempt to secure the defender’s services.

Ferdinand rues United’s missed opportunity

Speaking on his YouTube channel, the former England defender praised Konsa’s efficiency and consistency, describing him as one of the players Manchester United should have signed.

Ferdinand believes the Arsenal defender has already demonstrated the qualities required to strengthen a top club, particularly with his ability to adapt to different defensive positions.

“I think William Saliba is one of those guys that you have to find room for in the team. He’s that good, he’s top. 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.

“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 because he’s a top player.”

Konsa’s performances have given Arteta greater flexibility in organising his backline, particularly with the competition for places expected to intensify as Arsenal’s defensive options become available.

Konsa gives Arteta selection headache

The 28-year-old established himself as one of Aston Villa’s most reliable defenders under Unai Emery before securing his switch to North London.

His ability to play at centre-back and right-back has made him a valuable addition to Arteta’s squad, with the defender quickly adapting to the demands of his new surroundings.

Ferdinand believes Konsa’s immediate impact has created a welcome selection dilemma for the Arsenal manager, particularly with William Saliba also competing for a starting position.

“He’s giving Mikel Arteta some big decisions to make and big headaches because he’s slipped in seamlessly and put in some big performances. What a signing he’s been for Arsenal.”

Konsa’s performances have strengthened Arsenal’s defensive options as they maintain their pursuit of the Premier League title.

Contrasting fortunes for Arsenal and Manchester United

While Konsa continues to impress in North London, Manchester United remain under pressure amid their inconsistent performances.

Their defensive struggles have been a particular concern, with the 15 goals conceded in nine matches highlighting the problems Ferdinand believes could have been addressed by recruiting a defender of Konsa’s quality.

Arsenal, on the other hand, have benefited from the England international’s versatility and consistency as they seek to sustain their title challenge.