Rio Ferdinand urges Leny Yoro to be smarter in Premier League duels

Rio Ferdinand says Leny Yoro must be more selective in physical battles
The defender has featured more regularly for Manchester United under interim coach Michael Carrick
Yoro has stepped in during the injury absence of Lisandro Martínez

Rio Ferdinand has advised Leny Yoro to be more selective in physical duels as the young defender continues to adapt to the demands of the Premier League.

Yoro, 20, joined Manchester United from LOSC Lille in July 2024 in a deal worth around £52 million. The centre-back initially struggled to secure a regular starting place under former manager Erik ten Hag and later under Ruben Amorim.

His role has increased recently since Michael Carrick took charge as interim head coach. Yoro has played in five of United’s last eight matches, including four of the most recent fixtures.

Speaking on the Rio Ferdinand Presents, Ferdinand said the defender needs to be more strategic when facing physically stronger attackers.

“Leny Yoro right now is trying to fight too many fights in a game when physically he’s not starting at the same place,” Ferdinand said.

“Most of the players he’s playing against, especially number nines, are stronger than him. So you’ve got to pick your battles and pick your duels.”

Ferdinand explained that young defenders should focus on situations where they have the advantage rather than committing to every challenge.

“If you’ve got a 60-40 in your favour then you go all in,” he said. “When it’s a 50-50 or 40-60 you have to pick your punches.”

The former England international also suggested that United’s coaching staff, including Jonny Evans and Jonathan Woodgate, will be working with Yoro on improving those aspects of his game.

Yoro has previously spoken about receiving advice from Ferdinand as he develops his career at Old Trafford.

“When a player like Rio can give you advice you need to take it,” Yoro said last year.

The defender said he hopes to emulate former United centre-backs such as Ferdinand, Nemanja Vidić and Raphaël Varane by winning trophies and leaving a lasting impact at the club.

Yoro has recently featured more often due to the absence of Lisandro Martínez

WRITTEN BY

Hailey

Hailey Russell is a football journalist and former Division 1 collegiate athlete in the United States, bringing a unique blend of elite playing experience and professional insight to her work. Currently competing at the professional level in Europe, Hailey combines first-hand knowledge of the modern game with sharp analysis across match reports, player development, and tactical breakdowns.