**Paul Scholes Faces Criticism Over Video as He Opens Up About Family Struggles**
Paul Scholes, the renowned Manchester United midfielder and now football pundit, recently found himself under intense public scrutiny after an unusual video involving his daughter was shared online. The legendary footballer, known for his performances in the Premier League and later for his commentary on TNT Sports, became the focal point not for his insight into the game but for a personal family moment that went viral for all the wrong reasons.
The incident dates back to October 2021, when a video appeared on Instagram showing Scholes biting his daughter Alicia’s toenails. The original post, shared on Alicia’s public Instagram account, was captioned “true love,” but quickly took on a life of its own as viewers reacted with shock and dismay. Many social media users labelled Scholes’ actions as “disgusting,” and the footage was widely circulated, eclipsing his usual football-related headlines.
The backlash was swift and, at times, harsh. Scholes faced a torrent of mocking and negative comments online. Demonstrating a stoic demeanour, he broke his usual silence about private matters by posting a particularly abusive message he had received, ironically noting: “This is one of the nicer comments I’ve had this weekend…. I’ve had better ones.” This admission offered a rare glimpse into the difficulties faced by public figures when their private lives become fodder for internet commentary.
Complicating matters further, the controversy was reignited recently when former Brighton striker Neal Maupay referenced the incident during an online exchange. After being criticised by Scholes for his behaviour on the pitch, Maupay responded on X (formerly Twitter), saying: “Surprised Paul Scholes can fit my name in his mouth alongside his daughter’s toes.” This barb reignited discussion on social media, sparking renewed debate about the appropriateness of referencing personal incidents in public disputes.
Meanwhile, Alicia Scholes has been forging her own path away from the shadow of her famous father. A talented netball player, she began her career with Manchester Thunder before moving to London Pulse in 2022, competing at the highest levels of the Netball Super League. Alicia has also represented England internationally and credits her father for inspiring her approach to sport. She once told Sky Sports that Scholes always advised her to “never look too far ahead,” encouraging her to focus on training and daily improvement.
Despite the setback in the public eye, Scholes continues to support his family. Alicia is one of three children he shares with his wife, Claire, whom he has been married to for more than 25 years. Their eldest son, Arron, is 25, and their youngest, Aiden, is 20. The Scholes family has faced additional challenges, with Aiden being diagnosed with autism at a young age and remaining non-verbal. Paul Scholes has spoken candidly on social media about the emotional toll this diagnosis has taken on him and the entire family, reflecting, “The undoubted impact it has on his brother and sister kills me every single day.”
The footballer’s openness about his son’s autism has drawn both sympathy and support, reminding many of the personal challenges that exist behind the glamour of professional sport. Scholes’ candid admissions highlight the complexities and emotional struggles that come with raising a child with special needs, particularly under the unrelenting gaze of the public eye.
In addition to his sporting and punditry achievements, Scholes is also known for encouraging fair play, both on and off the pitch. The recent spike in attention has tested this image, but it has also highlighted the sometimes uncomfortable overlap between the personal and the public for celebrities.
As he prepares to return to Old Trafford for the high-profile Soccer Aid charity match, Scholes may hope that the focus will shift back to football, a world where he has inspired respect and admiration. However, the stain of viral infamy, once unleashed on social media, is not easily erased, serving as a lasting reminder of how quickly reputations can change in the digital age.
While the video incident remains a talking point among fans and critics, it has also underscored the importance of empathy and discernment in an era where private moments are so easily shared and judged by millions. Through candid reflection and continued dedication to his family, Scholes offers a powerful reminder that even the most celebrated sports icons face profound personal challenges away from the limelight.