Former Manchester United player, Rio Ferdinand, has recently disclosed the existence of a WhatsApp group that he shares with several other club legends and one current player. This revelation provides an intriguing insight into the camaraderie among these football icons.
The group, aptly named 'Band of Brothers', boasts an impressive roster including Wayne Rooney, Patrice Evra, Nani and Edwin van der Sar. However, it is not just former players who are part of this exclusive circle. Current player Jonny Evans also features in this unique assembly.
Evans had previously played under Sir Alex Ferguson during his first stint at the club before making a return in 2023. His inclusion in this group further cements his status as a respected figure within the Manchester United fraternity.
Lively space for banter and critique
Ferdinand revealed that lively discussions are commonplace within the group chat. Members frequently "hammer" each other as well as Ruben Amorim's current United squad during games. This candid exchange was shared by Ferdinand on his show "Rio Ferdinand Presents", where he was conversing with England Women's player Ella Toone.
Former Manchester United star, Rio Ferdinand, said:
"We hammer each other. It's active constantly. Wazza [Rooney] was the last person who spoke in there. It's called 'Band of Brothers'. I can't tell you the next bit, it won't make the cut.
"It's just hammering the United team. Look, lads are just hammering them through the game. 'He's not good enough'. I love it. It just keeps me connected to the lads. You've got the younger lads like Tom Cleverley, Danny Welbeck, and then there's Nani and Anderson."
Despite being a recent addition to the group chat, Edwin van der Sar might soon exit due to its spirited nature according to Ferdinand’s suspicions.
Rio Ferdinand added:
"You know who joined recently? Edwin van der Sar. I think he's going to delete himself soon because the chat ain't for him. I don't think he knows how to send gifs.
"Who else is in there? Jonny Evans is in there, who's currently playing. Some of the stuff that goes on... Patrice Evra gets mullered, hammered all the time. We hammer each other."
Only current player in the group
Ferdinand also let slip that Evans is part of this illustrious gathering while expressing doubts about Van der Sar's long-term membership in the group chat.
Evans will likely have time to peruse through these messages on Thursday when United take on FCSB in their final Europa League group stage match. The 37-year-old has been sidelined since December due to a muscle injury and hasn't been seen training recently; hence his return date remains uncertain.
This revelation by Ferdinand offers a fascinating glimpse into the camaraderie and banter among Manchester United's current and former players. It also underscores the respect that Jonny Evans commands within this group of legends, despite his recent return to the club. As sports fans and sports betting enthusiasts, such insights can provide valuable context for understanding team dynamics and player relationships.
