Rio Ferdinand predicts that Roony Bardghji, the emerging talent from FC Copenhagen, has the potential to reach great heights in his career.

Sought-after FC Copenhagen starlet Roony Bardghji is handling the attention he is receiving with ease, according to former Manchester United player Rio Ferdinand. The 18-year-old burst onto the European scene with a stunning winner against Manchester United in the UEFA Champions League group stages in November.

Despite being Copenhagen’s top scorer this season, Bardghji was named on the bench for their recent Champions League clash with Manchester City. Ferdinand, who has been impressed by Bardghji’s performances this season, spoke highly of the young talent. He stated, “He’s got a name already, he seems accustomed to that. He doesn’t seem fazed at all. Whenever I’ve seen him, he comes on, he looks like he should be there. He wants to be there; he’s got the ability. I think he’s going to be a name we’re going to hear more about. This is the type of night where he will want to announce himself even further than he has already.”

Bardghji’s winning goal against Manchester United will not be forgotten quickly, as he shares a name with Red Devils legend Wayne Rooney. The strike helped Copenhagen finish ahead of Manchester United in their group, setting up a challenging knockout tie against Manchester City, the reigning European champions and United’s city rivals.

Ferdinand acknowledged the pressure Bardghji faced in that game, saying, “There were so many things around that game that will make it an even bigger game for him. Yes, his name, but also playing against Manchester United, in this part of the world United have huge support, so he would have grown up knowing about Manchester United. It’s big pressure, 18 years old to come in and do that and to be the top goalscorer, says a lot about not just the ability but the mental capacity this young man has.”

Joleon Lescott, another pundit for TNT Sports, also praised Bardghji’s form this season. He said, “He definitely has the belief and the quality to perform at this level. I won’t be surprised if he’s gutted he’s not starting tonight as well. But I’m sure if he gets the opportunity he’ll relish it. I think he has an instinct in front of goal, he recognises where the ball might fall. There are certain things that you can’t necessarily coach and to be that comfortable in front of goal at such a young age, he obviously believes in his ability.”