Signing Info:
Signed Trainee: 08/07/1991. Signed Professional: 23/01/1993. Resigned from retirement, 01/01/2012
Previous Clubs:
Debut:
21/09/1994 v Port Vale (A) 2-1 (League Cup 2nd Round 1st Leg)
Farewell:
Retired from game, 19/05/2013
Passed Away:
Biography
Paul Scholes is widely regarded as one of the greatest central midfielders of his generation and a key figure in Manchester United's dominance during the 1990s and 2000s. Known for his incredible vision, passing range, and intelligence on the pitch, Scholes was a one-club man, spending his entire professional career at Manchester United. He made his debut for the club in 1994 and retired in 2013 (with a brief retirement comeback in 2012), playing a crucial role in United's success during his two-decade career.
Scholes was a central figure in United's midfield, known for his ability to control the tempo of a game, deliver pinpoint passes, and score spectacular long-range goals. His technical proficiency, coupled with his sharp football mind, allowed him to adapt and maintain an elite level of performance even as the game around him evolved. He was equally adept at playing deep in midfield or further forward as an attacking midfielder.
With 11 Premier League titles, 2 League Cups, 4 FA Cups, 5 Charity Shields, 2 UEFA Champions League titles, 1 Intercontinental Cup & 1 Club World Cup, Scholes' trophy haul speaks to his importance in one of the most successful periods in Manchester United's history. He was a key part of the famous "Class of '92" alongside players like Ryan Giggs, David Beckham, and Gary Neville.
Strengths:
Passing Range: Scholes was renowned for his exceptional ability to play short and long passes with precision, helping to dictate play from midfield.
Vision and Intelligence: His football IQ allowed him to see passes and create opportunities others might miss, making him the creative hub of United's midfield.
Shooting: Scholes was known for his powerful long-range shooting, often scoring from outside the box with ferocious strikes.
Composure: Scholes was calm and composed on the ball, able to perform under pressure and make crucial decisions that influenced games.
International Career:
Scholes earned 66 caps for the England national team between 1997 and 2004, playing in UEFA European Championships and FIFA World Cups. Despite his individual talent, he was often played out of position for England, which led to frustration and his eventual early international retirement at the age of 29.
Post-Retirement:
After retiring, Scholes has stayed involved in football as a pundit and occasional coach. He briefly managed Oldham Athletic in 2019 but is best known for his honest and insightful commentary as a football analyst.
Summary:
Paul Scholes is considered one of the most technically gifted and intelligent midfielders in football history. His combination of vision, passing ability, and goal-scoring threat from midfield made him a vital part of Manchester United's success for nearly two decades. With 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League triumphs, Scholes' legacy as one of United's all-time greats is unquestionable. Despite a relatively short international career, his club accomplishments solidify his place among football's legends.
