Daniel James left Manchester United to join rivals Leeds United for £25 million near deadline day. Recently former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand who has also played for the All Whites revealed that James’ move to Leeds was a very good deal for the Welsh winger.
Ferdinand then revealed that James was never Manchester United standard and the move will help all the parties. James came to Old Trafford in 2019 and in these two seasons, he has failed to cement a position in the starting.
His abilities may suit the style of play at Elland Road. A lot of people feel that his relentless running and energy will suit Marco Bielsa’s system than he did under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. Ferdinand however was not too impressed with the Welsh winger as he felt that the youngster was never ready to step from his time at Swansea City.
Former Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand who has had a stint at Elland Road, told on his FIVE youtube channel. “They’ve been on him for ages, they’ve wanted this boy for time.
“Listen, Dan James, I don’t think he’s Man Utd standard, but he’s definitely Premier League standard and the way Leeds play, he’s going to be a problem for a few teams.
“The kid in that team will be getting the ball and getting forward quick, and that suits his game.
“When you have to break down two banks of four like Man Utd that doesn’t suit James’ game, he likes space. Leeds United for Dan James will be a fantastic move for both parties.”
The 23-year-old joined Manchester United from Swansea City for £15 million after his deal to Leeds broke down back in 2019. However, after 74 appearances for the Red Devils, he has finally reached West Yorkshire this summer.
United management thought very highly of him and he lived up to the expectations as he scored a goal on debut against Chelsea. James was never able to consistently perform at Old Trafford due to the fierce competition that he faced in the attack.
Despite two years in Manchester, James was limited to a rotational role and mostly impacted games from the bench. However, Mason Greenwood’s emergence made life more difficult for the Wales International. It will be interesting to see how James will perform for the All Whites this season.
