For someone like Paul Scholes, life as a footballer has been an exemplary one indeed, in a career that has seen him being labeled as the complete footballer by so many legends of the game. Scholes is often related to his trademark diagonal passes, something that will never be seen at Old Trafford again after the ginger-haired maestro officially announced his retirement from football yesterday.
Scholes has had a very successful career with United, making an incredible 676 appearances for the club. Nevertheless, Scholes also revealed that he will not completely be out of the scene at Old Trafford after having accepted an offer to be a part of United's coaching set-up.
He said: "I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour. This was not a decision that I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. To have been part of the team that helped the Club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.
"I would like to thank the fans for their tremendous support throughout my career, I would also like to thank all the coaches and players that I have worked with over the years, but most of all I would like to thank Sir Alex for being such a great manager, from the day I joined the club his door has always been open and I know this team will go on to win many more trophies under his leadership."
Sir Alex Ferguson was equally sad about Scholes' retirement although the United manager stressed that his decision to join the coaching line-up will ensure that his influence remains within the United team.
"What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before. We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player. Paul has always been fully committed to this Club and I am delighted he will be joining the coaching staff from next season.
"Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new role."
Scholes fans are expected to be given a last treat of his performances as United are currently planning a testimonial match for the former England midfielder.
Nevertheless, his departure from United is definitely a signal to significant spending during the summer. Live Soccer TV previously discussed on potential replacements for Scholes HERE. What's your take on it? Leave a comment below!
