Paul Scholes attacks Michael Carrick on social media

Manchester United’s mood has been lifted in recent weeks, but last night saw the first dip since Ruben Amorim was sacked at the start of January 2026.

Since then, former United midfielder Michael Carrick was appointed as caretaker manager, aiming to steady the ship, and lately it looked like it’s working.

The football has improved, the belief has returned, and United have suddenly started looking like a side that can actually finish the season with something tangible on the table, primarily Champions League football.

However last night wasn’t the same cheerful evening for The Red Devils as United were beaten 2-1 by Newcastle United at St James’ Park, with William Osula scoring a 90th-minute winner.

Now, The Daily Mail has reported that Paul Scholes has taken aim at Carrick online after United’s first defeat in eight games.

In an Instagram story posted overnight, Scholes wrote: ‘Michael has definitely got something special about him… cos Utd have been c***p last four games… night’.

He reportedly added a kissing face emoji, before writing ‘Tonali’ and following the Newcastle midfielder’s name with a love heart. Scholes has since deleted the story from his Instagram profile.

The timing is what makes it all feel so messy. Carrick has been widely praised for the upturn since taking charge, with the report noting he has won six of his first eight games, reintegrated Kobbie Mainoo, and “breathed life” into Benjamin Sesko as United push for Champions League qualification.

Scholes’ view also ties into his wider stance on the permanent job, having questioned whether Carrick has the trophy-winning experience United should demand, while also discussing Carlo Ancelotti as an ideal option on a podcast.

For Carrick, it’s another reminder that the job is never just about the next match. It’s about managing the temperature around the club, and sometimes that heat comes from familiar faces.