Have to say I was not surprised to learn that Paul Scholes announced his retirement today. His unwillingness to sign a new deal during the season led to me believe that he would not be coming back.
I am pretty sure that Fergie knew that Scoles was retiring and that is one of the reason he put him on during the Champions League final. If you are going to go out at the top, what better way than to play our last game in the Champions League Final.
In announcing his retirement Scholes said:
“This was not a decision I’ve taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour. To have been part of the team that helped the club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.”
Sir Alex Ferguson said:
“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.”
Scholesy was one of the great passers in the game, and for a midfield player, his 150 goals won many games for United. The one against Barcelona in the Champions League semi-final was one of his best.
Paul Scholes = United Legend and he leaves a big gap in the United midfield. United have announced that Scholes will take on a coaching role with United from the start of next season and that he will have a testimonial match in August at Old Trafford.
PAUL SCHOLES CAREER STATISTICS:
- 676 Man Utd appearances, 150 goals
- 66 England caps, 14 goals
- Premier League winner: 1996, 1997, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2003, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2011
- FA Cup: 1996, 1999, 2004
- Champions League: 2008
- League Cup: 2009, 2010
- PFA Team of the Year: 2003, 2007
- 18th highest scorer in Premier League history (102 goals)
- 4th most booked player in Premier League history (87 times)
