MANCHESTER UNITED legend Rio Ferdinand thinks Harry Maguire will handle the pressure of being the world’s most expensive defender.
The former Leicester star is preparing for his Red Devils debut as he was seen arriving at the Lowry Hotel ahead of tomorrow’s Premier League clash against Chelsea.
Ferdinand became the world’s most expensive defender and the most expensive British player at the time of his £34million move to Old Trafford in 2002.
And, therefore, he understands how big of a burden Maguire, 26, is carrying on his shoulders after United paid the record-breaking £85m to sign him.
But the former Red Devils captain thinks that, despite high expectations, the England ace will do well in Manchester – and could one day become the skipper.
Ferdinand told BT Sport: “It’s huge pressure. I remember when I went to United and every training session you are thinking about the price tag.
“That’s what he would have been brought in for that [the captaincy].
“Initially though he has enough pressure just to perform, let alone to be captain. He needs to perform first.
“Every day in training people will be wondering if £80m is worth it.
“From people I’ve spoken to he will handle the pressure and has broad shoulders.”
Maguire is set to put the United shirt on for the first time tomorrow as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men are taking on Chelsea at Old Trafford.
But Marcus Rashford has already hailed his new Red Devils team-mate for the composure he brings to his teams.
He told The Times: “Harry brings calmness.
“Playing with him for England, you feel assured at the back, and for a team that’s massive.”
