Paul Scholes: Top Quotes on a Top Player

Legend

Paul Scholes is probably the most universally acclaimed footballer of his generation. Shy off the pitch, devastating while on it, Paul Scholes’ life was spotless and his career was a lesson on how to attain greatness and stay at the perch for aspiring footballers. It is perhaps because of this down-to-earth nature that accompanied his lethal abilities as a footballer that Scholes was unanimously loved by his peers. On the day of his retirement when one of football’s brightest lights has gone out, we bring you some of the best quotes that have been said about him. Do share with us if you have any more.

“My toughest opponent? Scholes of Manchester. He is the complete midfielder.

“He’s almost untouchable in what he does.You rarely come across the complete player, but Scholes is as close to it as you can get.”Zinedine Zidane, legend of the game, considered one of the greatest players of all time.

“In the last 15 to 20 years the best central midfielder that I have seen — the most complete — is Scholes. I have spoken with Xabi Alonso about this many times. Scholes is a spectacular player who has everything. He can play the final pass, he can score, he is strong, he never gets knocked off the ball and he doesn’t give possession away. If he had been Spanish then maybe he would have been valued more.”

Xavi Hernandez, Barcelona midfield maestro, arguably the best midfielder in the world at the moment

“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.”

Sir Alex Ferguson, Father of Manchester United, unearthed and managed Paul Scholes during his entire career.

“Paul Scholes went from a scoring midfielder to a dictator of the game”

Rio Ferdinand, team-mate of Paul Scholes since 2002.

“What United have that Chelsea haven’t is Paul Scholes. Think he’s different to anything else in English football.”

Kevin Keegan, former Liverpool legend, two-times Ballon d’Or winning striker

“I can’t understand why Scholes has never won the player of the year award. He should have won it long ago. Maybe it’s because he doesn’t seek the limelight like some of the other ’stars’.“

Thierry Henry, Arsenal legend, played against Paul Scholes in the Premier League for 8 years

“Scholes is the best English player. Intelligence, technique, strength… all the attributes are there.”

Laurent Blanc, former Manchester United defender, current manager of the French National Team

“I used to love seeing him receive a ball he had eyes in the back of his head he knew were everyone was on the pitch! He will be a great coach-his knowledge and understanding is top draw!”

Phil Neville, team-mate of Scholes during the legendary 1999 Treble Campaign

“An amazingly gifted player who remained an unaffected human being.”

Roy Keane, Former Manchester United captain and Paul Scholes’ midfield partner. Club legend

“Paul Scholes retires. One of the best players I’ve seen in my life! Training was a sight! It was a pleasure playing with him!”

Gerard Pique, Three-times Champions League winning center-back. Played with Scholes for 4 years at Old Trafford.

“Just heard Paul Scholes has retired, best I’ve ever played against by a mile. Most technically gifted player in english history. Legend”

Joey Barton, hard-tackling English and Newcastle United midfielder