TNT Sports faces backlash as Rio Ferdinand and Robbie Savage spark bias complaints during Manchester United’s Europa League match in Lyon

TNT Sports has come under fire for what many perceive as biased commentary during Manchester United’s Europa League victory over Lyon.

The broadcast, which featured exuberant reactions from Rio Ferdinand and Robbie Savage, led to a surge in complaints, with viewers calling out the commentary’s apparent one-sided nature.

Interestingly, the only other program to receive more complaints in the same period was ITV’s Celebrity Big Brother, which also garnered significant backlash.

Full commentary cam from Old Trafford last night 😅🎙️🎥@rioferdy5 @DFletcherSport @robbiesavage8 pic.twitter.com/nrHJHK6Lmj

— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) April 18, 2025

United’s Dramatic Victory

Manchester United secured a place in the Europa League semi-finals after an exciting finish, with Kobbie Mainoo and Harry Maguire both scoring late in extra time.

Their dramatic comeback sparked intense emotion from the commentary team, but the excitement may have crossed a line for some viewers, who voiced their displeasure to Ofcom.

The Complaints Surge

According to Ofcom, which releases weekly data on complaints received, United’s thrilling victory came in second place for the most complaints between April 15 and 21, with a total of 102.

In contrast, Celebrity Big Brother topped the list with 125 complaints.

Ofcom confirmed that the majority of the complaints about TNT’s broadcast were centered on the alleged biased commentary.

What Sparked the Controversy?

The broadcast, which included a camera view from the commentary box, showed Darren Fletcher standing between Ferdinand and Savage.

The footage, later shared on TNT’s social media, captured Ferdinand’s enthusiastic reaction after Mainoo’s equalizer.

He was seen shouting “oh my God” and punching the air, while Savage cheered with a smile, urging, “Go and get the winner!”

The excitement escalated further when Maguire scored the winning goal, sending United into the next round.

Ferdinand’s jubilant “I believe in miracles. Wow” seemed to strike a chord with fans, but not all viewers were impressed by the exuberant celebration.

Comparing with MUTV

Legendary commentator Clive Tyldesley took to his blog to compare the TNT broadcast to MUTV, United’s official channel, suggesting the coverage leaned too heavily toward supporting the club.

This comparison sparked further debates about the neutrality expected from mainstream broadcasters during live sports events.

Ofcom’s Role in Investigating Complaints

Whenever Ofcom receives more than 50 complaints about a broadcast, they assess whether the content breaches the Broadcasting Code.

This scrutiny could lead to further investigations into TNT’s commentary, though it remains unclear whether any formal action will be taken.

Ferdinand’s Track Record with TNT

This isn’t the first time Ferdinand’s commentary style has raised eyebrows.

During the 2024 Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund, Ferdinand made headlines for repeatedly mentioning “Ballon d’Or” after Vinicius Junior’s brilliant goal.

His enthusiastic praise during that match for a Madrid player led to similar discussions about impartiality in commentary.

Future with TNT

Reports suggest that TNT may be facing uncertainty regarding Ferdinand’s future with the network.

Insiders have hinted that the former footballer has yet to sign the contract extension offered to him, leaving his future at the broadcaster in doubt.

In light of these controversies, TNT will likely need to reassess its approach to commentary, particularly if it wishes to maintain its reputation for impartial broadcasting.