Paul Scholes’ Biggest Football Regret Involves Sir Alex Ferguson

Former Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has opened up about the one moment in his storied career that he truly regrets. The revelation came during a candid conversation on the popular football show, The Overlap.

Scholes identified a single financial negotiation with the iconic manager Sir Alex Ferguson as his biggest professional misstep. This moment of regret stems from a lucrative transfer offer he received at the peak of his powers.

The situation unfolded in the year 2000, shortly after Scholes had helped Manchester United secure a historic treble. His performances had attracted significant attention from European giants.

Italian powerhouse Inter Milan presented a formal offer to sign the English midfielder. The financial terms were staggering, especially for that era in football.

Inter was prepared to pay Scholes an annual salary of £4 million. Crucially, this substantial sum was reported to be after tax.

As detailed in the complete version, there are several key factors to consider.

This offer more than doubled what the player was earning at Old Trafford at the time. The proposal presented a life-changing financial opportunity for the then 25-year-old.

Despite the immense temptation, Scholes’ loyalty to Manchester United ultimately won out. He made the decision to reject the move to Serie A.

However, armed with the knowledge of his market value, Scholes mustered the courage to approach Sir Alex Ferguson. He sought a pay rise from the club to better reflect his status and the external offer.

The encounter with the manager did not go as the midfielder had hoped. Ferguson’s response was immediate and definitive.

Scholes recalled the manager’s famous little black book during the negotiation. This book was known to contain the contract details of every player in the squad.

Ferguson meticulously flicked through the pages for what felt like an eternity to the waiting player. He then delivered his verdict.

The manager calmly informed Scholes that his current salary was appropriate. Ferguson stated he was “level with everyone” and that his pay was “fine.”

Scholes described the entire experience as “horrible.” He confessed that even recalling the event now makes his heart beat faster.

He expressed deep regret for ever questioning the club’s wage structure. For Scholes, that single meeting remains a stain on an otherwise pristine career.

The midfielder’s loyalty was never in doubt, despite the rejected pay rise. He did not attempt to leave Manchester United for another decade following the incident.

Scholes went on to become one of the club’s most decorated and important players. He eventually amassed over 700 appearances for the Red Devils.

His career is a testament to his incredible talent and enduring commitment. Yet, this one financial discussion with Ferguson is the moment he would take back.

The story offers a fascinating glimpse into the man-management style of Sir Alex Ferguson. He was renowned for maintaining strict control over his squad and its harmony.

It also highlights the different pressures modern footballers face. Balancing financial security with club loyalty remains a complex challenge.

Paul Scholes, now 50, has clearly carried the memory of that meeting for 25 years. It underscores the profound respect and slight fear he held for his legendary manager.