As one of football’s rare one-club men, Manchester United icon Paul Scholes understands his club better than most and the history that goes along with it.
The Red Devils icon made over 700 appearances under Sir Alex Ferguson before hanging up his boots. But that only makes the former Red Devils midfielder’s admission regarding his favourite stadium atmosphere all the more surprising.
Scholes was widely recognised as one of the greatest midfielders of his generation and his talents were appreciated by Barcelona legend Xavi among others.During his sparkling career, Scholes has enjoyed the privilege of playing at some of the best arenas in world football – from the San Siro to the Santiago Bernabeu. Of course, he has also starred at cherished Premier League venues such as Anfield, Old Trafford, Highbury, Stamford Bridge, the Emirates Stadium and St James’ Park.
Now 50, the United stalwart works as a TV pundit, which enables him to speak with some candour about his playing experiences. And in a discussion about his career, he was asked about which atmosphere he enjoyed the most when out on the pitch.An answer that may surprise some United fans, Scholes named Elland Road as the most raucous atmosphere to play in, which of course belongs to their arch rivals Leeds United.
He explained that the bitter rivalry between the clubs set the scene for feisty battles in West Yorkshire, which contributed to his enjoyment of playing at the 37,890-capacity ground.“We [Man United] loved going to places where everyone is baying for blood,” he said on beIN Sports in 2018. “It’s [Elland Road] brilliant,” he added.
“You’d go to Leeds, I know it’s on a domestic point of view… [they were] psychopaths! Absolutely mental fans.”Aside from Liverpool and neighbours Manchester City, Leeds are historically one of United’s most despised rivals and one of the teams Scholes faced most often.During his playing days, Scholes faced the Whites on 16 occasions, emerging triumphant in 10 of those encounters. The former United midfielder’s last appearance against the now Championship side came in February 2004 as he scored in a 1-1 draw at Old Trafford.
Leeds were relegated from the Premier League that season after experiencing financial difficulties and spent 13 years in the second tier before finally being promoted back to the top-flight in 2019-20.
However, Leeds were relegated again in 2022-23 and are fighting to regain promotion to the top flight after losing out last season in the playoff final to Southampton.
When they eventually succeed, Scholes will no doubt relish the opportunity to go back for another visit. Until then, watching Ruben Amorim’s team at Old Trafford will have to make do.
