Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand reveals Carlo Ancelotti’s admiration for Richarlison

Former Manchester United star Rio Ferdinand has revealed that Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti is a huge fan of Tottenham Hotspur star Richarlison. Ancelotti managed the Brazilian international during their time together at Everton before Ancelotti left for the Bernabeu Stadium a few years ago.

Since then, Richarlison left Everton for Spurs, signing for a fee in the region of £60million just over a year ago. However, the 26-year-old has struggled to live up to his price tag, only scoring one goal in the Premier League last season.

With star striker Harry Kane leaving for Bayern Munich this summer, Richarlison is expected to have a more prominent role for the north Londoners this season and he took full advantage at the weekend, scoring the equaliser during Saturday's 2-1 victory over Sheffield United. Now, ex-England international Ferdinand has claimed that he spoke to Ancelotti, who predicted that the talented forward will go on to play at the very top level.

"I like him as a player," said Ferdinand when asked about Richarlison. "I remember speaking to Carlo Ancelotti about him when he had him at Everton.

"He said 'this kid will play for a top, top-tier team'. He will go to a Champions League team and he will be 'one of the best players around because he is that good'.

"With Harry Kane leaving, he could be the biggest beneficiary of it, as a number nine at that club. He should be. He has to give himself a good chance.

"I think this manager will stand by him, for a period of time and give him the time and patience. I think he brings so much more than just goals. He is a nuisance to play against.

"I think he will be difficult to play against in that sense. He is always on your shoulder. He doesn’t mind a little bit of physicality. He’s crafty in and around the box.

"He’s got good footwork. Good awareness. And he will always get chances - I believe in the long run, he will do well at Spurs."