Paul Scholes: The Midfield Maestro of Manchester United

Manchester United is the most successful club in England’s top tier, particularly during the Premier League era.

In the first two decades of the Premier League, Sir Alex Ferguson created a winning team filled with talented academy graduates who became club legends.

The six young players known as the ‘Class of ’92’ gained fame after winning the FA Youth Cup that year and each enjoyed impressive careers.

 

Ryan Giggs became the most decorated player in English football history and United’s record appearance maker. David Beckham emerged as a major celebrity, while Gary Neville represented the spirit of the fans.

Among this talented group, Paul Scholes is often regarded as the most beloved by Manchester United supporters.

Though he shied away from the spotlight, Scholes is seen by many as the most naturally gifted English footballer of his time.

This is the story of Paul Scholes, a player known for his exceptional technique and stunning goals:

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Born in Salford, Greater Manchester, Scholes moved to Langley as a child. He showed talent in various sports despite having asthma. He was noticed by United as a teenager and began training with the club, becoming a trainee in the early 1990s.

Although he is part of the ‘Class of ’92’, Scholes did not play in the FA Youth Cup final that year; he was on the losing side in the final against Leeds the following season.

Scholes, initially a forward, made his senior debut in a League Cup match against Port Vale in September 1994, scoring twice in a 2-1 victory.

He scored on his Premier League debut soon after and ended his first season with seven goals, also appearing as a substitute in the FA Cup final against Everton.

Scholes joined a Manchester United team that was starting to dominate the Premier League. His skills allowed him to excel in the physically demanding league despite being shorter than many players.

His attacking style helped him score 14 goals as United won a domestic double in the 1995/96 season. Scholes had the freedom to attack and showed an uncanny ability to time his runs into the box perfectly.

Alongside Roy Keane, Scholes created a respected midfield partnership, winning titles in 1997 and 1999. Their 1999 victory was part of a historic treble, although both were suspended for the Champions League final.

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As Scholes became more influential, he scored double figures in four consecutive seasons around the turn of the millennium, dazzling fans with spectacular goals.

Scholes struck the ball with precision and power, with the 1999/2000 season showcasing more unforgettable moments, including a stunning volley against Bradford.

During a game against Bradford, with a crowd-pleasing effort, Scholes executed a memorable volley after receiving a corner kick arranged perfectly by Beckham.

20 years ago today, Paul Scholes did this ????

One of his best ever goals for Manchester United ????pic.twitter.com/UpbH5f42En

— GOAL (@goal) March 25, 2020

While many thought the goal came from meticulous practice, Scholes explained that it was simply a result of teamwork and trust.

“We never worked on it in training. Becks just took the corner, I gave him a little look to let him know I was there, he delivered it to where I wanted and I volleyed it in. We were on the same wavelength.”

A few weeks later, he scored another outstanding goal against Middlesbrough, showcasing his exceptional technique even under challenging circumstances.

Scholes’ distinctive strikes became a hallmark of his career, as seen in a memorable goal against Panathinaikos during a Champions League match.

United’s victory included a remarkable chip from Scholes following an intricate passing move, emphasizing his skill and creativity.

As his career progressed, Scholes adapted his playing style. He shifted from an attacking role to a deeper position, controlling the tempo of the game with his passing and vision.

While his goals became less frequent, they often remained outstanding, like the powerful volley against Aston Villa that he considers one of his best.

After a defender’s clearance fell perfectly for him, Scholes struck a stunning volley that hit the crossbar and went in.

He describes this goal as remarkable, highlighting his exceptional timing and technique.

The connection on this Paul Scholes strike is just ridiculous ????pic.twitter.com/T46hNfVHDV

— GOAL (@goal) May 24, 2020

Great players leave a mark beyond just scoring goals. Scholes demonstrated this during a Champions League semi-final against Barcelona, contributing a crucial goal.

With both legs scoreless, Scholes made the difference with an excellent strike that helped United reach the final.

After receiving a ball from a clearance, Scholes hit it into the top corner, ensuring United’s opportunity to face Chelsea in the final.

12 years ago today, Paul Scholes did THIS against Barcelona ????????pic.twitter.com/gEwbcZTczB

— GOAL (@goal) April 29, 2020

United won the final on penalties, giving Scholes his second Champions League medal, which held special significance after his earlier suspension in 1999.

He finished his career with 18 major honors, including 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League victories.

Few players can boast such an impressive career marked by success and admiration from peers. Scholes was known as a player’s player and remained essential to Manchester United’s legacy.

The comparisons with other top players like Steven Gerrard and Frank Lampard will continue, but Scholes is regarded among the finest English footballers of his era.

Transitioning from a young goal scorer to a seasoned playmaker, Scholes was an integral part of Manchester United’s success and a player of extraordinary talent.

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