As one of Manchester United’s most decorated players, Paul Scholes knows what it takes to be a club great. The former midfielder, who won 11 Premier League titles and two Champions Leagues, was asked to pick the top five players in United history. A difficult task given the club’s long list of icons, Scholes provided his selections in an interview with MailSport.
Eric Cantona: The Catalyst for Success
Scholes began his list with the enigmatic Frenchman, Eric Cantona. Though he played for United for just five seasons, his influence was profound. Cantona scored 82 goals and was instrumental in transforming Sir Alex Ferguson’s early team into serial winners.
“I only played with him for a year or two,” Scholes admitted. “But he was sensational and gave the team that final push to start winning titles.”
Cantona’s ability to inspire his teammates and lead from the front made him an unforgettable figure in United’s history.
Bryan Robson: The Ultimate Leader
At number four, Scholes named Bryan Robson, the club’s longest-serving captain and a midfield powerhouse. “Captain Marvel” made over 400 appearances and was voted the greatest-ever United player by former teammates.
“He was a hero of mine growing up,” Scholes said. “I was lucky enough to play with him at the end of his career. He was an all-action midfielder who could do everything.”
Robson’s leadership and relentless drive made him a central figure during his time at Old Trafford.
Roy Keane: The Commanding Presence
For Scholes, no list would be complete without Roy Keane, his midfield partner and United’s fierce captain during the club’s golden years.
A crucial figure in the treble-winning 1998-99 squad, Keane was known for his leadership and influence on the pitch.
“He did everything for this club,” Scholes stated. “He was the manager on the pitch. He defended, attacked, and controlled games in a way few players could.”
Keane’s intensity and determination set the standard for Manchester United’s dominance in the late ’90s and early 2000s.
Wayne Rooney: The Record-Breaker
Coming in at number two is Wayne Rooney, United’s all-time top scorer with 253 goals. But for Scholes, Rooney was more than just a goal machine.
“He was a scintillating, amazing footballer,” Scholes said. “His power, technique, and goalscoring ability made him one of the best.”
Rooney’s ability to play multiple roles, his drive, and his incredible consistency earned him legendary status at Old Trafford.
Ryan Giggs: The Undisputed Number One
Scholes’ top pick was Ryan Giggs, a player who spent an astonishing 24 years at United, winning more trophies than any other player in the club’s history.
“What he did from 17 to 40 was outstanding,” Scholes said. “As a young winger, he excited the crowd. Later, as a central midfielder, he was just as influential.”
Giggs made a club-record 963 appearances, and his longevity, versatility, and dedication make him, in Scholes’ view, the greatest Manchester United player of all time.