Former England striker, Gary Lineker has hinted at a possible personal rift behind Paul Scholes’ recent criticism of former Manchester United teammate Michael Carrick.
Since Carrick stepped in as interim manager following Ruben Amorim’s departure last November, some former players appear to have opposed his appointment, despite his strong start in the United dugout.
Carrick’s early success has sparked debate over whether he should be considered for the permanent role. However, figures like Gary Neville, Roy Keane, and Scholes have repeatedly suggested that United should look elsewhere for their next manager.
While some of the criticism is framed as a footballing argument, it has occasionally turned personal. Keane, for instance, has involved Carrick’s family in his comments and stated that United should not appoint Carrick under any circumstances.
Scholes’ disapproval became more evident after Carrick suffered his first defeat, against Newcastle. Immediately following the game, Scholes posted a sarcastic comment on social media, seemingly enjoying United’s loss. Although he later deleted the post, fans reacted strongly, viewing it as a bitter dig.
Former United defender Patrice Evra also criticised Scholes, Keane, and Neville for their overly harsh commentary, suggesting their negativity was designed to attract media attention.
On The Rest is Football podcast (via Yahoo Sport), Lineker suggested there may be more to the story.
“You see, there’s a little bit of beef between Paul Scholes and Michael Carrick?” Lineker said. “He’s digging him out, isn’t he? He’s not exactly being very supportive of his old teammate, is he?”
The 65-year-old added: “It’s an odd one. It’s weird, isn’t it? Maybe there’s a bit of history there. Who knows?”
Scholes and Carrick shared the pitch in 160 games for United between 2006 and 2013, winning eight major trophies together, including five Premier League titles and one Champions League crown.
