Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has unveiled his top five players to ever wear the iconic red shirt, offering his expert insight as one of the club’s greatest players himself.
During his illustrious 20-year career at Old Trafford, Scholes secured 11 Premier League titles, five domestic cups, and two Champions League trophies, solidifying his status as one of football’s all-time greats.
Scholes, widely celebrated for his vision, passing ability, and knack for scoring crucial goals, took on the challenging task of ranking Manchester United’s finest.
He acknowledged how difficult it was to choose between players who not only became club legends but are also hailed among football’s all-time elites.
5. Eric Cantona
Kicking off Scholes’ list at number five is the charismatic French striker Eric Cantona.Known for his flair and influence, Cantona is often credited with propelling Sir Alex Ferguson’s early United teams to new heights during the 1990s.
Despite spending just five years at the club, Cantona left an indelible mark, netting 82 goals and playing a pivotal role in four league title victories.
Scholes reflected on Cantona’s impact, saying:
“I only played with him for a year or two, but he made a massive impact on the club.
He was a sensational player and was probably the missing link that got the team over the line to winning titles.”
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4. Bryan Robson
At number four is Manchester United’s longest-serving captain, Bryan Robson.
The midfielder, affectionately known as ‘Captain Marvel,’ made over 400 appearances for the Red Devils and was voted the club’s greatest-ever player by former United stars in 2011.
Scholes described Robson as an all-action midfielder who could do everything expected of a United player:
“He was another hero of mine growing up, and I was lucky enough to play with him towards the end of his career. He could do everything a Manchester United midfielder should do.”
3. Roy Keane
Scholes’ third pick was Roy Keane, a player cut from a similar cloth as Robson.
The tenacious Irishman was the heart and soul of United’s midfield during the late 90s and played a crucial role as captain during the historic treble-winning season of 1998-99.
Highlighting Keane’s leadership, Scholes said:
“He captained the club and was the manager on the football pitch. He did everything defending, attacking, contributing in every way a United midfielder should.”
2. Wayne Rooney
The club’s all-time leading goalscorer, Wayne Rooney, takes the second spot on Scholes’ list. With 253 goals to his name, Rooney’s record might stand the test of time.
However, Scholes emphasized that Rooney’s legacy at United extended far beyond his incredible scoring record.
“He was a scintillating, amazing footballer,” Scholes praised. “Raw power, sensational technique, and a brilliant goalscoring record. I was lucky enough to play with him for a long time.”
1. Ryan Giggs
Topping Scholes’ list is none other than Ryan Giggs, whose remarkable 24-year spell at Old Trafford saw him win more trophies than any other player in the club’s history.
Giggs made an unmatched 963 appearances for Manchester United, evolving from a dazzling winger to a composed and influential central midfielder in his later years.
Scholes summed up Giggs’ impact perfectly:
“What he did for this club from the age of 17 to 40 was outstanding. As a young winger, he would get the crowd off their feet, and as an older player, he became equally influential in midfield. That’s why he’s number one for me.”
Scholes’ selections showcase the incredible talent that has graced Old Trafford over the decades, highlighting not just individual brilliance but the influence these players had in United’s storied success.
