Paul Scholes has voiced what many Manchester United supporters have quietly believed — that one player is slowly dismantling the club’s identity from the inside, and it isn’t André Onana, Alejandro Garnacho, or Bruno Fernandes. The United icon believes the true source of Old Trafford’s ongoing troubles lies with a different senior figure, one whose influence has become more destructive than helpful. According to Scholes, this player’s time at the club should come to an end when the summer transfer window opens.
Following United’s heavy 4-1 loss to Newcastle, Scholes didn’t hold back in his post-match remarks. He made it clear that while Onana has faced criticism, he isn’t the core issue plaguing the team. In Scholes’ words, there’s another figure pulling the club backwards — someone who has managed to remain largely in the shadows despite playing a significant role in Manchester United’s steady decline. Scholes called on the club’s board to take decisive action and cut ties with this individual before further damage is done.
Though Scholes chose not to name the player outright, insiders suggest he was referring to a senior squad member known for recent lackluster performances, questionable professionalism, and a poor example set both on and off the pitch. His remarks have triggered a wave of speculation online, with supporters trying to piece together the identity of the disruptive figure. Many believe it’s a player whose status and long-standing presence at the club have shielded him from blame — despite an evident dip in form and contribution.
The situation deepened when Scholes hinted this same player played a role in Erik ten Hag’s downfall and is now reportedly causing unrest even before the expected arrival of Ruben Amorim. According to Scholes, this isn’t about temporary form but about the erosion of Manchester United’s core values and football culture.
Fans have since taken to social media to vent their frustrations and theories, with a significant number pointing fingers at Marcus Rashford. Once celebrated as a shining example of United’s homegrown talent, Rashford has endured a difficult season filled with criticism over his attitude, commitment, and rumored influence behind the scenes. Many feel he’s clinging to past glories while falling short of the standards expected at the club.
Scholes’ strong words about a player sabotaging the dressing room and undermining managers has fueled these suspicions. With Rashford reportedly considering his future at Old Trafford and tensions said to be growing between him and the incoming Amorim, speculation continues to gather pace.
Whether Rashford can rediscover his best form and repair his relationship with both the fans and the club remains to be seen. But with summer approaching and pressure building, it appears his future at Manchester United could be hanging by a thread.
