Scholes Backs Carrick Overhaul: Nine United Players Must Go This Summer

Paul Scholes has delivered his verdict on a wholesale Manchester United clear-out, identifying nine players destined for the exit door if he held the keys to Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have enjoyed an impressive resurgence since Michael Carrick took over in January, replacing Ruben Amorim. Seven wins and just a single defeat across their last ten matches have put Champions League qualification firmly within reach.

Yet the legendary midfielder believes far more than squad tweaking is required. Casemiro's summer departure is already locked in, and Scholes reckons the Brazilian's exit should be merely the beginning of a significant rebuild. Speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast while playing through a keep-or-sell exercise, Scholes outlined his vision for a leaner, hungrier United.

The Defensive Reshuffle

Maguire finds himself in the crosshairs despite a remarkable personal redemption arc. Scholes acknowledges the England defender's improvement but questions whether he possesses the calibre needed for genuine title contenders. De Ligt edges him out on age and pace grounds, though Scholes suggests keeping just one of the pair rather than both.

Yoro, the summer arrival, hasn't convinced Scholes yet. While the youngster shows promise, his current struggles suggest an exit might be prudent.

Mazraoui's role has become increasingly muddled. Scholes sees no clear position for him in a system that no longer deploys three centre-backs, making him surplus to requirements.

The Flanks

Shaw's injury troubles have taken their toll. Once Europe's finest left-back when fit, his availability issues make him expendable despite a respectable appearance record this season.

Dalot, meanwhile, merits retention as a squad option.

Midfield and Attack

Mount faces an impossible task competing for minutes against Bruno Fernandes. With no obvious alternative position and limited game time, his departure makes sense despite Scholes' admiration for his talents.

Dorgu arrived as a wing-back but has scarcely featured in that role. His positional ambiguity relegates him to squad player status at best, prompting Scholes to suggest moving him on.

Patrick Dorgu presents similar problems—uncertain of his best position and lacking meaningful opportunities.

Ugarte appears destined to follow, though the midfielder hasn't been definitively written off.

Scholes keeps faith with Fernandes as his standout performer, Bruno's brilliance making him untouchable despite United's first-half struggles. Mainoo and Lammens also survive the cull.

Up front, only Zirkzee faces the chop. Matheus Cunha, Amad Diallo, Bryan Mbeumo and Benjamin Sesko all retain their futures at the club.

The Midfield Priority

United's immediate recruitment focus must centre on midfield reinforcement. With Casemiro heading for the exit and Ugarte seemingly following, the engine room requires urgent attention. Scholes believes this overhaul represents the foundation upon which Carrick can build something genuinely competitive.