Nobody knows what it takes to succeed in Manchester United’s midfield better than Paul Scholes.
718 appearances, 155 goals and countless inch-perfect cross-field diagonals for the Red Devils cemented Scholes as arguably the greatest midfielder to ever grace United’s team.
Having shared the centre of the Old Trafford pitch with the likes of Roy Keane and Michael Carrick, Scholes is largely viewed as the perfect blueprint for what young midfielders should aspire to emulate.
He’s been crying out for midfield reinforcements at his former club in the seasons since he’s dipped his toe into the punditry water and he recently witnessed a terrific signing on manager Jose Mourinho’s behalf.
Nemanja Matic moved to United from Chelsea last week and, ahead of United’s Super Cup clash with Real Madrid on Tuesday night, Scholes has delivered his take on the acquisition of the Serbia international.
“I really like the Matic signing. That was the one that surprised me a little bit. It made you wonder why did Chelsea sell him?” Scholes said on BT Sport.
“I think he brings aggression to United’s midfield which is something I think they have been lacking.
"Why did Chelsea sell him?" 🤷♂️
Paul Scholes hails the addition of Nemanja Matić to Man Utd's midfield… 👌 pic.twitter.com/9849FMpjY8
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) August 8, 2017
“I think he’s very similar in a way to Michael Carrick in a controlling midfielder but what he brings and what Michael doesn’t bring is a little bit of aggression which, when he gets to the ball, he tackles, he allows other people to play.
“I think you saw that with Chelsea last year when he and Kante were magnificent together and that allowed Hazard and Fabregas and whoever else was playing that bit of freedom.
“I’m hoping he’ll do that with United.
Just in case you needed reminding… 😉 #MaticIsRed pic.twitter.com/Ops60qt5ZU
— Manchester United (@ManUtd) August 1, 2017
“A bit of freedom for Pogba, for Martial, for Lingard, Mkhitaryan. These players need to step up this year.
“I think last year they were potential match winners that didn’t really do it when they should have done, I think this year if they can step up to the plate and they can become match winners this season then I think United have got a big chance.”
