Rio Ferdinand, the former Manchester United defender and current pundit for TNT Sports, has been hospitalized and will miss coverage of Arsenal's critical Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain on May 7, 2025. The 46-year-old shared a concerning image on social media, showing himself in a hospital bed with a band around his wrist, yet he gave a thumbs up, suggesting he remains in good spirits despite the undisclosed health issue that has sidelined him from this high-profile fixture.
In his post, Ferdinand expressed his disappointment at missing the coverage, stating, "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!" His message quickly garnered an outpouring of support from his 11.6 million followers, including a response from TNT Sports wishing him a speedy recovery: "Get well soon, Rio."
Tonight's match at the Parc des Princes is crucial for Arsenal, who are looking to overturn a 1-0 deficit from the first leg at the Emirates Stadium. The only goal of that match was scored by Ousmane Dembele, giving PSG a slight advantage. Mikel Arteta's side must secure a comeback victory to reach the Champions League final scheduled in Munich on May 31, 2025.
PSG has been formidable at home this season, suffering only three losses on their own turf, to Atletico Madrid, Liverpool, and Nice. Despite their strong home record, Arsenal will be hoping to capitalize on PSG's historical struggles in Champions League semi-finals.
Ferdinand was expected to be part of TNT Sports' line-up for the match alongside lead presenter Darren Fletcher. He had covered the first leg at the Emirates Stadium last Tuesday, April 29, 2025. As one of TNT's top pundits, Ferdinand has been a regular fixture on their broadcasts of major European fixtures.
In addition to missing the Champions League match, Ferdinand will also be absent from TNT Sports' coverage of Thursday's Europa League semi-final between Manchester United and Athletic Club, which takes place on May 8, 2025. His absence from the latter match is particularly notable as it involves his former club, Manchester United, who hold a commanding 3-0 advantage after a stunning win in Spain last week.
The news of Ferdinand's hospitalization comes amid a busy week for him with TNT Sports. He had been on duty for United’s Europa League semi-final first leg in Bilbao last Thursday and also covered Aston Villa’s 1-0 home win over Fulham in a Saturday lunchtime kick-off.
Ferdinand's health update has sparked concern among fans and colleagues alike, with many taking to social media to wish him well. United goalkeeper Andre Onana was quick to like Ferdinand's hospital post on Instagram, while popular United supporter Olly Murs commented, "Won't be the same without ya Rio! Rest up."
The specific nature of Ferdinand's medical issue has not been disclosed, leaving fans to speculate about his condition. It remains unclear whether he will be able to resume his presenting duties for TNT Sports’ Premier League coverage of Newcastle United vs. Chelsea on Sunday, May 11, 2025.
As Ferdinand recovers, the focus shifts to Arsenal's crucial match against PSG. The Gunners are determined to make history by reaching the Champions League final for the first time since 2006. Both teams are eager to lift the iconic trophy, and with the stakes so high, fans will be watching closely to see if Arsenal can defy the odds and secure a place in the final.
In the meantime, TNT Sports will adjust their coverage lineup, bringing in other pundits to fill Ferdinand's role. His absence will undoubtedly be felt, as he has been a prominent voice during live broadcasts of major matches.
As the evening approaches, excitement builds for the match in Paris, and many will be tuning in to see if Arsenal can pull off a remarkable comeback. With Ferdinand cheering them on from his hospital bed, the team will surely feel his support as they aim to turn the tie around and keep their Champions League dreams alive.
