Paul Scholes claims 'touchy' Man Utd player asked to meet him because he was unhappy about club legend's criticism

Former United boss Erik ten Hag recently suggested that the psychological makeup of players has changed in the age of social media. He observed that many current professionals are more affected by external opinions than their predecessors due to the 24/7 scrutiny they face online.

Ten Hag pointed out that today’s footballers are more inclined to internalise public criticism, often letting it impact their confidence and form. Scholes' story adds weight to that observation, showing how even commentary from respected voices within the club fraternity can spark emotional reactions.

Speaking candidly, on The Overlap Fan Debate, a panel discussion backed by Sky Bet, Scholes claimed to have been contacted by a current United player who was unhappy about his strong views.

"Players can be a little bit touchy these days," the United legend said. "I had a player [from United], this year, who contacted me and wasn’t happy with some of the things I’d said. He wanted to meet me at the training ground, and I said, 'Of course, no problem,' and gave him my number but he never got back to me."

Scholes emphasised that he stood by his views and was willing to have an honest and potentially uncomfortable discussion if the player wished.

“I would have done it," he insisted. "If I’m saying things I believe and he wants me to explain why, it wouldn’t have been a nice conversation, but I said if they or anyone else has a problem, there’s my phone number."

While emotions may be running high off the pitch, United’s performances on it haven’t helped matters either. The Red Devils have picked up just two victories in their last eight Premier League matches, with those wins coming against relegation candidates Ipswich and Leicester.

Ruben Amorim's United team face a demanding stretch in the coming weeks. Their attention now turns to Europe as they prepare for the first leg of their Europa League quarter-final clash against Lyon, which takes place in France this Thursday. That will be followed by a league fixture away at Newcastle, before they host Lyon in the return leg the following week at Old Trafford.