Paul Scholes

Club career

A graduate of Manchester United’s academy and part of the club’s celebrated 1992 youth group, Scholes made his senior debut against Port Vale in September 1994 and scored twice. He became a central figure in the team, first as an attacking midfielder and later as a deeper playmaker.

Scholes made 718 appearances and scored 155 goals for United across all competitions. He was part of the side that won the 1998/99 Premier League, FA Cup and Champions League Treble, although suspension ruled him out of the Champions League final. He later scored the winning goal in the 2008 semi-final against Barcelona and played in the final victory over Chelsea.

He initially retired in 2011, returned to the first team in January 2012 and retired for good in 2013. His 11 league titles remain a record among English players.

International career

Scholes won 66 caps and scored 14 goals for England between 1997 and 2004. He represented the country at the 1998 and 2002 World Cups and at EURO 2000 and EURO 2004, then retired from international football before the 2006 World Cup.

Playing style and legacy

Scholes combined close control and crisp passing with a powerful shot from distance. He began his senior career further forward, then adapted into a deeper role where his awareness and range of passing helped set the rhythm of United’s play. His longevity, 155 United goals and collection of domestic and European honours made him one of the defining midfielders of his era.