Paul Scholes, born on November 16, 1974, in Salford, England, is regarded as one of the finest midfielders of his generation, celebrated for his vision, passing, technique, and goal-scoring ability. Scholes spent his entire professional career at Manchester United, becoming a key figure in one of the most successful periods in the club’s history.

Scholes joined Manchester United’s youth academy in 1991 and turned professional in 1993. He made his first-team debut in 1994 in a League Cup match against Port Vale, marking the occasion with a goal. His early promise quickly translated into a pivotal role within the team, where he became renowned for his midfield mastery.

Over the course of his career, Scholes won a staggering array of titles with Manchester United, including 11 Premier League titles, three FA Cups, and two UEFA Champions League trophies. His ability to control the game, combined with his knack for scoring from midfield — often with precise long-range efforts — made him an invaluable member of the team.

Despite his quiet demeanor off the pitch, Scholes’ influence was profound. Known for shunning the spotlight, he let his performances speak for themselves, earning the admiration of teammates, opponents, and managers alike. His playing style was characterized by intelligent movement, exceptional ball control, and a remarkable range of passing, making him a central figure in Manchester United’s dominance of English football during the late 1990s and 2000s.

Internationally, Scholes earned 66 caps for England and scored 14 goals. He participated in major tournaments including the UEFA European Championships in 1996 and 2000, as well as the FIFA World Cup in 1998 and 2002. Despite his talent, England’s “golden generation” struggled to fully utilize his abilities, often deploying him out of his natural central midfield position.

Scholes retired initially in 2011 but made a surprising return to playing in January 2012, helping Manchester United in another title chase before retiring for the second and final time in 2013. His comeback underscored his importance to the team and his undiminished skill even at the latter stages of his career.

Following his playing days, Scholes has been involved in football as a pundit and briefly as a manager. His insights into the game, delivered with the same understatement that defined his playing career, have been widely respected. Despite his ventures into coaching and media, Scholes is often remembered for his humility and commitment to a single club throughout his career.

Paul Scholes’ legacy is that of a player who embodied the spirit of Manchester United, combining talent with hard work and loyalty. His career is a testament to the impact a midfielder of his calibre can have on the game, making him a true icon of English football.