Rio Ferdinand has made his Manchester United future clear after deciding not to extend his contract this summer as he is set to leave the club after 12 trophy filled years.

The 35-year-old has played 455 games for the club, collecting six Premier League titles, a UEFA Champions League, a FIFA Club World Cup, two League Cups, and five Charity/Community Shields.

However, as United brought in younger talents through the likes of Phil Jones, Chris Smalling, and Jonny Evans, Ferdinand's playing time has been very limited in the past few seasons.

In addition to a vast array of incoming talent, the center back has also seen his time in the starting lineup halted by continuous injuries, before finally deciding it was time to move on.

"I have thought long and hard over the last few months about my future and, after 12 fantastic years playing for what I regard as the best club in the world, I have decided the time is right for me to move on," Ferdinand told Sky Sports.

"I joined Manchester United in the hope of winning trophies, and never in my wildest dreams could I have imagined how successful we would be during my time here.

"There have been so many highlights, playing alongside some great players who have become good friends, winning my first Premier League title and also that fantastic night in Moscow are memories that I will cherish forever.

"Circumstances didn't allow for me to say goodbye the way I would have liked but I'd like to take this opportunity to thank my team-mates, staff, the club and the fans for an unbelievable 12 years that I'll never forget. Winning trophies I dreamed about as a kid came true at this great club.

"I am feeling fit and healthy, ready for a new challenge and looking forward to whatever the future holds for me."

[ad_pod id='ricco' align='center']