Scholes Clarifies Carrick Jab: "No Intention of Upsetting You"

Paul Scholes has moved to smooth things over with Michael Carrick after his Instagram commentary on United's recent form sparked considerable backlash.

The former midfielder's social media post, which suggested the Red Devils had been "crap last 4 games," drew criticism from all quarters—including ex-teammate Patrice Evra, who half-jokingly wondered if Scholes' account had been compromised. But speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, Scholes insisted the remark wasn't directed at Carrick personally.

"It was in no way intended to be offensive towards Michael," Scholes explained. "Michael's one of the nicest people in football, he would be the last person I want to offend."

The 49-year-old went on to reveal he'd contacted Carrick directly, sending an eight-word message: "Look I had no intention of upsetting you." According to Scholes, the interim boss took it in his stride, confirming he harboured no ill feelings.

Carrick's spell in temporary charge had been impressive on paper—six wins and a draw from seven matches, catapulting United to third in the Premier League. That run came to an end on Wednesday when Newcastle secured a 2-1 victory at Old Trafford, though the circumstances proved controversial.

Antony Gordon's penalty opener, awarded after Bruno Fernandes fouled the Newcastle winger, was quickly cancelled out when Casemiro headed in from Fernandes' free-kick. Jacob Ramsey's subsequent dismissal—a harsh decision by referee Peter Bankes—handed United numerical advantage, yet they still contrived to lose. William Osula's stunning 90th-minute finish, curling past Harry Maguire from the right touchline, proved the difference.

Scholes' actual grievance, he insisted, was simply about United's underlying performance levels. "The only thing I was saying was that I don't think they played that well the last four games and he's still managing to get results," he clarified.

He drew a parallel to Sir Alex Ferguson's philosophy, suggesting that fortune occasionally plays a part. "We had the greatest manager in the world and he always said sometimes you need a bit of luck. So with sending-offs and different things that happen through games, sometimes you do need a bit of luck, that's all I was saying."

Scholes added: "I think people have just taken it differently from what was meant."