When we talk about football legends, few names shine as quietly yet powerfully as Paul Scholes. In his autobiography “My Story”, Scholes takes readers through his journey — from a football-loving boy in Salford to becoming one of the most respected midfielders in football history. This book is not flashy; just like Scholes himself, it’s honest, calm, and deeply real.
Early Life and Love for Football
Paul Scholes was born in Salford, Manchester, in 1974. From a very young age, football became the heart of his life. He spent most of his childhood kicking a ball around with friends, not dreaming of fame or money, but simply because he loved the game.
Scholes writes about his early days at school and how his teachers and family noticed his natural ability to pass and control the ball. He was not the tallest or the fastest, but his focus, technique, and intelligence on the field made him stand out.
Joining Manchester United’s Youth Academy was a dream come true for him. He was part of the famous “Class of ’92”, alongside David Beckham, Ryan Giggs, Gary Neville, Phil Neville, and Nicky Butt. This group of young players went on to shape United’s history in the coming years.
Life at Manchester United
The major part of Scholes’s story revolves around his long career at Manchester United, where he played under the legendary manager Sir Alex Ferguson. His debut for the senior team came in 1994, and from that moment, there was no looking back.
Scholes describes how Ferguson trusted young players and gave them big opportunities. He felt lucky to be part of a generation that changed English football forever.
He also opens up about his teammates — how Beckham’s fame, Giggs’s speed, and Keane’s leadership inspired him. Scholes was never a man of big words or public attention. He preferred to let his football speak for him.
He scored many unforgettable goals — from long-range strikes to perfect volleys. But Scholes never played for headlines. He simply wanted to enjoy football and make his team win. That’s what makes him special.
The Thinking Midfielder
In My Story, Scholes also talks about his style of play — being a deep-lying midfielder who could control the game’s rhythm. He reveals that he loved watching players like Glenn Hoddle and Diego Maradona when he was young.
He wasn’t tall or strong, but his sharp vision, perfect passing, and calm mind made him different. Coaches and teammates often said Scholes could “see the game seconds before others.”
Scholes explains how he trained himself to stay composed under pressure, make quick decisions, and always find space on the pitch. These qualities made him a true football thinker — something that coaches like Pep Guardiola and Zinedine Zidane have openly admired.
Playing for England
Paul Scholes’s time with the England national team is another emotional part of the book. He admits he didn’t enjoy international football as much as playing for United.
He loved representing his country but often felt uncomfortable with the media hype and the tactics used by the England managers.
Scholes retired early from international football at the age of 29. He explains that it wasn’t because he didn’t care — it was because he wanted to spend more time with his family and focus on Manchester United.
His honesty in this part of the book shows how much he valued peace, simplicity, and loyalty.
Challenges, Injuries, and Retirement
The book also discusses Scholes’s struggles with injuries and the difficult decision to retire in 2011. He describes how much he missed playing football — so much that he came back out of retirement just months later!
His return in 2012 was magical. Fans still remember that surprise comeback against Manchester City. He played like he had never left.
Finally, in 2013, Scholes retired for good — this time satisfied. He says he felt blessed to end his career on his own terms, surrounded by respect and love from fans and teammates.
Life Beyond Football
Off the field, Scholes is a private person. He talks about his love for his wife and children and how much he enjoys being at home, watching football or spending quiet time with family.
He also shares his views on modern football — the rise of money, fame, and social media — and how he still believes football should be played with passion and simplicity.
Scholes never wanted to be a celebrity; he wanted to be remembered as a good footballer and a good person. That’s exactly how the world sees him.
Lessons from “My Story”
Paul Scholes’s book is more than a football biography — it’s a lesson in humility, dedication, and loyalty.
Some key takeaways include:
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Success doesn’t always need noise.
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Talent with discipline lasts longer than fame.
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Family and peace matter as much as trophies.
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Staying humble even at the top is real greatness.
Final Thoughts
“Paul Scholes: My Story” is written in the same quiet but powerful tone that matches Scholes’s character. It’s not filled with drama or controversy — instead, it’s filled with honesty, emotions, and memories that touch your heart.
For every football lover, especially Manchester United fans, this book is a treasure. It reminds us why Paul Scholes is called “the genius who never shouted.” His story proves that even silent people can make the loudest impact through their work and passion.
