When Paul Scholes speaks about Manchester United, people listen. One of the most respected voices in English football, the former midfield maestro rarely minces his words — and this time, he’s made headlines again with a brutally honest assessment of three current United players.
As the Red Devils prepare to return to Premier League action this weekend, Scholes has delivered a scathing verdict that’s left fans divided and the football world buzzing.
According to the United legend, certain players in Erik ten Hag’s squad have “run out of steam” — mentally, physically, and emotionally. In Scholes’ words, they are “done.”
And for a club built on relentless ambition and world-class standards, that’s not an accusation to be taken lightly.
Scholes’ Warning: “They’re Done — Completely”
Speaking during a football analysis show earlier this week, Scholes didn’t hesitate to call things as he saw them. Without naming names at first, he hinted at a loss of hunger and consistency among senior players who once formed the core of United’s plans.
“I’m sorry, but some of these lads — they’re done. Completely. You can see it in their body language, in the way they react when things don’t go their way. It’s not about ability anymore — it’s about mentality. Manchester United can’t carry players who’ve given up.”
The comments immediately set social media ablaze. Fans began speculating which three players Scholes was referring to, with discussions raging on platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and Reddit.
But Scholes didn’t stop there. When pressed further, he reportedly named three individuals who, in his view, no longer have the drive or form to take United forward.
The Suspected Trio: Familiar Names Under Fire
While Scholes’ exact words have not been officially released in full, multiple reports suggest the three players in question could be Antony, Casemiro, and Marcus Rashford — three of United’s biggest names, but also among the most criticized in recent weeks.
Each has faced mounting scrutiny for various reasons:
- Antony has struggled to justify his massive transfer fee from Ajax, with questions surrounding his productivity and decision-making.
- Casemiro, once the heartbeat of United’s midfield, has looked off the pace, with critics pointing to signs of fatigue and slowing reflexes.
- Rashford, meanwhile, remains a source of frustration for fans. After his breakout season, his performances have dipped, and his body language has often been interpreted as detached.
Scholes’ claim that they are “done” resonates with fans who have grown weary of inconsistency. For him, it’s not about reputation — it’s about output.
“This is Manchester United,” Scholes emphasized. “You play for the badge, or you don’t play at all. It’s that simple.”
A Message to Erik Ten Hag: “Be Ruthless”
Beyond criticizing the players, Scholes sent a clear message to Erik ten Hag, urging him to make bold decisions for the good of the team.
He argued that loyalty and sentimentality have no place at a club trying to rebuild and challenge for trophies.
“Ten Hag has to be ruthless. If you can’t depend on them week in, week out, then what’s the point? We’ve seen this before at United — players hanging around because of what they used to be, not what they are now. That has to stop.”
This echoes a growing feeling among supporters that Ten Hag must shake up his starting XI — focusing on youth, hunger, and consistency rather than seniority or reputation.
Scholes’ comments could be seen as both a critique and a warning: either the manager acts decisively, or the same patterns that have plagued United in recent seasons will continue.
United’s Current Reality: Flashes of Talent, Lacking Consistency
Manchester United’s season has been a story of contradictions. On one hand, there have been glimpses of brilliance — thrilling attacking moves, solid defensive spells, and moments of individual magic. On the other, the team continues to struggle with inconsistency, lapses in concentration, and a lack of killer instinct.
The team’s recent performances have highlighted the need for renewal and fresh energy. For Scholes — a player who once embodied determination, discipline, and quiet excellence — the sight of senior players failing to show the same hunger must be painful.
“It’s not just about having a bad game,” he said. “We all had those. It’s about reaction. Do you fight back? Do you demand more of yourself? Too many of them don’t.”
Fans React: Support and Shock in Equal Measure
As soon as Scholes’ comments hit the airwaves, the United fanbase exploded with opinions.
Some supporters praised him for speaking truth to power:
“Finally, someone’s saying what we’re all thinking,” one fan posted on X. “The standards have dropped. If players can’t deliver, they shouldn’t be protected.”
Others, however, felt Scholes’ words were too harsh — especially given the difficulties the squad has faced with injuries, tactical adjustments, and off-field distractions.
“Calling players ‘done’ is extreme,” argued another fan. “We’ve seen Rashford bounce back before. Writing him off now feels premature.”
But that’s the power of Scholes’ voice. Whether you agree with him or not, his opinion carries weight — because he’s been there, done it, and won it all.
The Bigger Picture: Standards and Accountability
Scholes’ comments touch a deeper nerve within Manchester United’s modern era — the ongoing struggle to live up to the club’s historic standards.
During his playing days, Scholes was part of a team that demanded excellence every single day. Mediocrity simply wasn’t tolerated. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, complacency was career suicide.
That mentality, many argue, has eroded in recent years. Players seem protected, comfort zones have expanded, and the fierce winning edge that defined the club’s golden generation feels distant.
Scholes’ words, then, are not just criticism — they’re a call to arms. A reminder of what Manchester United used to be, and what it must become again.
What Happens Next: A Defining Moment for Ten Hag
Erik ten Hag now finds himself at a crossroads. Does he double down on his trusted veterans, or does he heed the message from a club legend and make bold changes?
The next few matches could define United’s season — and Ten Hag’s credibility with fans. Dropping high-profile players is never easy, but sometimes necessary to send a message about accountability and standards.
With young talents like Kobbie Mainoo, Alejandro Garnacho, and Rasmus Højlund knocking on the door, the time for transition may already be here.
If Scholes’ words spark a reaction — from both players and manager — this controversy could become a turning point rather than a distraction.
Conclusion: Scholes’ Honesty Hurts, But It Might Help
Paul Scholes’ blunt assessment has reignited a familiar debate at Old Trafford: what does it mean to play for Manchester United?
His claim that three players are “done” isn’t just about form — it’s about mentality, pride, and accountability.
Whether you agree with him or not, his message is unmistakable: no one is untouchable, and the standards that made United great must return.
As the team gears up for their Premier League comeback, the spotlight will shine brighter than ever on those three players. Will they respond with fight, or prove Scholes right?
Either way, one thing is certain — Paul Scholes has once again reminded the football world that he speaks from the heart, and never from fear.
