MANCHESTER, ENGLAND — Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has identified five outstanding players he would like to bring to Old Trafford if he had the opportunity to rebuild the squad and return the club to its former glory.
His preferred selections include two key Arsenal stars, Gabriel Magalhaes and Declan Rice, alongside three internationally recognised footballers.
The former Manchester United midfielder also mentioned Real Madrid duo Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, as well as Bayern Munich attacker Michael Olise.
His choices reflect the quality and experience he believes United must recruit if they are serious about challenging for the biggest trophies in domestic and European football.
Gabriel Magalhaes
Gabriel Magalhaes is one of the defenders Scholes believes could make a significant difference to United’s backline.
The Arsenal centre-back has developed a reputation for his strong physical presence, impressive aerial ability, and determination when defending against dangerous attackers.
He is also effective during offensive set pieces, making him a threat whenever his team wins corners and free kicks around the opposition’s box.
Jude Bellingham
In midfield, Jude Bellingham would be another valuable addition.
The Real Madrid star offers a combination of technical ability, strength, intelligent positioning, and attacking instincts.
His versatility allows him to contribute both defensively and offensively, while his ability to arrive in the penalty area could provide United with more goals from midfield.
Michael Olise
Scholes also selected Michael Olise because of the creativity and attacking quality he could bring to Manchester United.
The Bayern Munich winger is particularly dangerous when taking on defenders, creating chances, and delivering accurate passes into the penalty area.
His individual brilliance and ability to operate in wide attacking positions could improve United’s options in the final third.
Kylian Mbappe
Another major name on the list is Kylian Mbappe.
The French forward is widely recognised for his exceptional speed, movement, and clinical finishing.
His ability to play through the middle or from the left side would give United considerable flexibility in attack. He could also provide the consistent goalscoring threat required by a team hoping to compete for major honours.
Declan Rice
However, the fifth position on Scholes’ list underwent a change.
He initially considered Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane but eventually replaced him with Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice.
Rice’s excellent defensive awareness, strength in winning possession, passing ability, and leadership qualities were among the reasons behind the decision.
What This Means
Although there is no indication that Manchester United are currently negotiating for these five footballers, Scholes’ suggestions reveal the kind of players he believes could improve the squad.
His selections cover defence, midfield, and attack. This suggests that significant improvements across different departments would be necessary for United to regain their status as serious contenders for major trophies.
What Happens Next
Manchester United will continue their campaign in the Premier League. The club’s hierarchy will also be monitoring the transfer market.
For now, the focus is on the current season. The coming months will reveal whether United will act on Scholes’ recommendations.
