The ex-England international made over 300 appearances for the Red Devils in 12 years and is looking forward to coming up against Angel Di Maria on his return
Former Manchester United captain Rio Ferdinand hit out at his old club ahead of his return to Old Trafford on Sunday.
Ferdinand’s 12-year stint in Manchester ended in the close-season when he switched to QPR, the defender moving on after 312 league appearances for United.
However, despite being a part of six Premier League titles under legendary boss Sir Alex Ferguson, Ferdinand said he never got the chance to farewell the fans – whom he will greet as an opposition player on Sunday.
“I had great years at Old Trafford,” Ferdinand told BBC. “I never got to say goodbye when I left, which was unfortunate, so it will be a nice opportunity to say bye to a lot of people who supported me and helped me.”
Ferdinand’s comments came after United manager Louis van Gaal claimed the England defender decided to leave, and was not pushed out – despite reports chairman Ed Woodward told the 35-year-old he would not have his contract extended immediately after their season finale in May.
“No,” replied Van Gaal, when asked if Ferdinand would still be a valuable asset. “There is a time to stay and time to go and I think he decided to go.
“He was a great player and maybe he is still a great player, but there is always a time to go for a player in a club.”
Ferdinand also said he felt QPR were meeting United – winless in three league matches – at the worst possible time for the Londoners.
“The timing could not have been worse for us,” Ferdinand said. “Angel Di Maria and Radamel Falcao are two world-class players. They will be raring to go and wanting to prove themselves to the United fans.
“I’ve played against Di Maria before and really liked him. He’s a really good runner with the ball – quick and direct – and one of the hardest players to play against.
“United have not had the best of starts and I have to do a professional job. I’m sure there will be a few emotions on my part but I have to put those to one side.”