Paul Scholes expresses doubts about Manchester United’s decision to sign the £75 million player following their draw with West Ham.
Manchester United’s shock defeat to Wolves has opened the floodgates of criticism, and one of the loudest voices belongs to Paul Scholes. The United legend didn’t mince words as he questioned the club’s judgment in spending £43 million on a player who, in his view, has done little to justify such an investment.
Speaking after the painful 3-1 loss at Old Trafford, Scholes was visibly frustrated. He pointed at the performance of the big-money signing, making it clear he couldn’t understand why United went for him in the first place. Though he held back from mentioning the player by name at first, it quickly became obvious who his comments were aimed at.
Scholes’ verdict was brutally direct. He said the player had failed to show any qualities worthy of his price tag and insisted the issue wasn’t just about money, but about what the player actually contributes to the team. In his eyes, that contribution is currently close to nothing. He went further by comparing him to the man he replaced, arguing that United have not upgraded at all—in fact, they may have taken a step backward.
To Scholes, the new signing lacks the consistency, energy, and influence that the previous player brought to the pitch. Instead of elevating the squad, he believes the club has weakened a vital position.
The defeat to Wolves only heightened these concerns. United looked lost for long stretches of the match—defensively shaky, slow in midfield, and wasteful in attack. The visitors punished every mistake, leaving the home crowd stunned and angry. The boos that echoed around Old Trafford told their own story.
Scholes’ criticism also reflects a broader frustration felt by many supporters. The club’s transfer decisions have been under the spotlight for months, and this latest performance has reignited the debate about whether United are investing in players who truly fit the system or simply chasing names and price tags. With the £43 million signing struggling to settle, the pressure on him—and on those responsible for bringing him in—is only increasing.
Fans online have already begun speculating about the identity of the player Scholes targeted, especially since the transfer fee narrows down the options. Many fear United have once again spent big without solving any real problems.
For the player in question, the situation is now delicate. Being called out by someone as respected as Paul Scholes isn’t something easily brushed aside. He’ll need to respond with performances that prove he belongs at the club and can handle the weight of expectations that come with wearing the shirt.
As the dust settles from the Wolves defeat, bigger questions loom over Manchester United. Who is making these recruitment decisions? Is there a coherent plan behind the scenes? And how many more of these expensive mistakes can the club afford?
Scholes’ blunt assessment might sting, but it has forced a conversation United desperately needs to address. Whether this becomes a turning point or just another episode in the club’s ongoing struggles will depend heavily on how the players—and the hierarchy—react in the weeks ahead.
