The Englishman was a joy to watch both at the club and international level, thanks to his signature long-range shots that humiliated many goalkeepers and cracked the meanest defences in the world of football.
A fearless and daring midfielder, Scholes’ bullet-like shots on target, sleek passes and total command of the midfield made him one of the greatest midfielders to have ever graced the beautiful game. Apart from his skills, the 41-year-old legend stood out for having played for Manchester United for his entire professional career.
He won a total of 25 trophies at the club level, which include 11 Premier League titles with United, 2 Champions League trophies, and scored 107 goals in his 499 appearances for the Red Devils. Currently, he is the co-owner of Salford City FC and a soccer analyst for BT Sport.
Here is a summary of his professional career at Manchester United and the glowing tributes
Happy 41st birthday Paul Scholes. What a player!
Posted by The SPORT Bible on Monday, November 16, 2015
Happy birthday to Paul Scholes one of my all time favourite players. JB https://t.co/fPU2lLQiC0
— Man Utd news & views (@manutd__chants) November 16, 2015
However, recently, the celebrated midfielder has taken his punditry to a whole new level by criticizing Louis Van Gaal’s ''defensive’’ type of play. He has been quoted many times dismissing the Dutchman’s philosophy at Old Trafford, claiming that United only need to play an attacking style of football. He blamed Wayne Rooney’s recent poor run on Van Gaal’s tactics, which he described as lacking ‘’creativity and risk.’’
Speaking to journalists about his former club’s new style of play, he explained:
"It hasn't been great for 13 months, but I better not say too much because Louis might be listening,"
"There's been talk of a philosophy, a process. For me, Manchester United don't need a philosophy.’’
"The fans want to see attacking football and goals -that's the Manchester United way."
In his response, the Red Devils boss claimed that he can never be hurt by names. Scholes, however, acknowledged the role of youngster Jesse Lingard who he described as United’s best player against CSKA Moscow in their Champions League fixture earlier this month.
