Rio Ferdinand has confirmed that he will miss Arsenal's Champions League semi-final clash with Paris Saint-Germain and Manchester United's Europa League showdown with Athletic Bilbao this week after he was admitted to the hospital. The former Red Devils centre-back has been working as a commentator and a pundit for TNT Sport following his retirement from the beautiful game.
He often provides coverage of the biggest games in both of Europe's top club competitions, the Champions League and the Europa League. He's been a controversial figure for fans, with some of his opinions rubbing them the wrong way, but he's become a staple of games on the grandest stage.
He won't be there to cover the Gunners' attempt at overcoming PSG for a spot in their first Champions League final since 2006, though. He will also miss his former club almost certainly confirming their victory over Bilbao, with a 3-0 aggregate lead heading into the second leg. Now, he's provided an update as to his absence at the games.
Ferdinand released a statement
Ahead of Arsenal's game against PSG, Ferdinand posted a statement on social media, confirming that he won't be at the game and will also miss the United game on Thursday. He shared an image of himself in hospital, in a bed.
Rio Ferdinand, Manchester United legend, said:
"Gutted to be missing the Semi-Finals this week on @footballontnt!! Wishing the team all the best — I’ll be watching every minute from the iPad!"
While the reason for the Englishman being in hospital hasn't been confirmed, the Sun has since reported that his condition isn't believed to be a serious one. Considering his condition isn't considered to be serious, there's no doubt he'll be back on TNT and ready to provide coverage for both the Champions League final and the Europa League final. Whether Arsenal and United happen to be competing in them remains to be seen.
