The Manchester United icon was displeased about what he saw at Old Trafford for the Soccer Aid clash
Paul Scholes on the Stick to Football podcast
Paul Scholes took aim at Soccer Aid in 2023(Image: Stick to Football)
View 2 Images
Manchester United icon Paul Scholes once playfully criticised Soccer Aid organisers after they turned Old Trafford into a blanket of sky blue and white flags. Scholes' gripe emerged as he participated in the match three years ago.
He light-heartedly expressed his frustration at the iconic Soccer Aid flags, which made United's ground resemble their cross-city neighbours, Manchester City. Soccer Aid was co-founded by pop star Robbie Williams and TV presenter Jonathan Wilkes and supports the global children's charity UNICEF.
It has taken place since 2006, with this year's fixture marking the 20th anniversary. Scholes enjoyed an eventful evening for the England side during the 2023 edition of the charity match, netting a spectacular long-range effort before departing injured.
Get MEN Premium now for just £1 HERE – or get involved in our United WhatsApp group by clicking HERE. You can also join our United Facebook page by clicking HERE and don't miss out on our brilliant selection of newsletters HERE.
Yet prior to kick-off, he turned to Instagram to humorously express his frustration at the colours decorating the four corners of Old Trafford.
The former England midfielder shared an image of the packed stadium, with the caption: "Somebody has to be taking the p*** with these flags."
Scholes turned back the clock to give England a 2-1 advantage against the World XI. The 51-year-old was subsequently substituted, though, after falling awkwardly in a challenge with former United colleague Nani and took no further involvement in the contest, which the World XI won 4-2.
Scholes, who has taken part in the event on three previous occasions, turned to Instagram to give fans an update on his injury.
He wrote: "Knee's f*****, but couldn't give two s****. Nothing will ever give me a better feeling than playing in front of a full house at Old Trafford and scoring a goal. Great couple of days with some very funny people."
Widely considered one of United's all-time greats, Scholes made over 700 appearances for the club across a 19-year professional career. During that period he claimed 25 trophies, among them 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League trophies
Scholes warms up at Old Trafford
Scholes was not pleased with what he saw at Old Trafford(Image: PA)
View 2 Images
This year's Soccer Aid will feature an England squad strengthened by footballing icons including Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe, Jill Scott and Jack Wilshere.
Alongside them will be The Night Manager and Avengers star Tom Hiddleston and Rivals actor Danny Dyer. Content creator Angry Ginge, comedian Jack Whitehall, Sam Thompson and Olly Murs are amongst the other high-profile names set to participate.
Soccer Aid 2026 takes place on Sunday, May 31, at the London Stadium in the Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park, Stratford. Kick-off is scheduled for 6.30pm and the match will be broadcast live on ITV.