Live from Old Trafford, Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has launched a scathing critique of manager Erik ten Hag after a controversial decision to substitute Marcus Rashford at halftime during tonight’s match. The unexpected change left both fans and commentators perplexed, with Scholes calling it a “catastrophic mistake” and accusing the Dutch manager of making poor choices that could jeopardize United’s season.
In an emotional post-match interview, Scholes, visibly frustrated, voiced his disbelief at Rashford’s removal. The 26-year-old forward, who had shown flashes of the form that made him one of United’s standout players last season, was taken off at halftime while the team was trailing. Ten Hag explained the decision as a precaution ahead of United’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Aston Villa, but Scholes wasn’t convinced.
“Are you serious?” Scholes asked in exasperation. “Rashford, at 26, is finally showing the sharpness we’ve been hoping for—he’s aggressive, he’s clinical—and you take him off at halftime? What’s the reasoning behind this? You’re concerned about the weekend when we’re losing right now! This is classic Erik ten Hag at his worst—no consistency, no real understanding of how to manage the team in key moments!”
Scholes, a decorated former United player, didn’t hold back in his assessment, urging the club’s hierarchy to take action before the situation worsens. He emphasized that Ten Hag’s questionable decision-making could result in the team dropping crucial points during a critical phase of the season.
“We need to step in now before more damage is done!” Scholes demanded passionately. “This is Manchester United, yet we’re being managed like some mid-table team. It’s embarrassing. Ten Hag was supposed to be the one to move us forward, but instead, he’s making baffling choices. Why take Rashford off when we’re already losing—what kind of logic is that?”
Scholes’ criticism extended beyond just the Rashford substitution. He questioned Ten Hag’s overall management style, expressing doubts about the Dutchman’s tactical approach and his ability to lead a club of United’s stature. Scholes pointed out that inconsistent lineups and poor game management were key reasons for the team’s struggles this season.
“One minute we’re playing well, and the next, our best players are being taken off at halftime. It’s absolute madness. If this continues, we’re headed for disaster,” Scholes warned.
The decision to bench Rashford, who had been one of United’s key attacking threats in recent matches, is likely to exacerbate frustrations among fans. Rashford’s resurgence has been one of the few bright spots in what has otherwise been a difficult season for the club. However, tonight’s decision has raised fresh concerns about the direction the team is headed under Ten Hag, with some supporters beginning to question whether he is the right man for the job.
Tensions were already running high at Old Trafford due to United’s inconsistent performances, and Scholes’ harsh comments have only added to the pressure on Ten Hag. Many fans echoed Scholes’ views on social media, with some calling for a managerial change in light of the team’s recent struggles.
“He’s ruined the game,” one fan tweeted, mirroring Scholes’ frustration. “This is the final straw. We need a manager who understands what it means to manage Manchester United. Ten Hag is clearly out of his depth.”
With United’s vital match against Aston Villa looming, the pressure on Ten Hag is growing. Scholes, a devoted United supporter, believes that significant changes are needed to salvage the season, and many fans seem to agree with his assessment.
“The fans are heartbroken by this result,” Scholes concluded. “It’s beyond frustrating. We deserve so much better.”
As the fallout from Rashford’s substitution continues to mount, all eyes are now on Erik ten Hag. The question remains: will he stand firm in his decisions, or could this mark the beginning of the end for his time at Old Trafford? One thing is certain—United’s loyal supporters are losing patience, and time may be running out for the Dutch manager.
