Paul Scholes deletes Instagram story mocking Michael Carrick after Newcastle loss

Paul Scholes drew social media backlash after appearing to delete a sarcastic Instagram story aimed at interim Manchester United boss Michael Carrick following a 2-1 defeat to 10-man Newcastle. A 90th-minute strike from William Osula ended Carrick’s unbeaten run; Scholes’s post read, "Michael has definitely got something special about him… cos Utd have been crap last 4 games… night," and included a kissing emoji and a heart for Newcastle’s Sandro Tonali.

The update was removed but captured by supporters. Reaction on X was split. Some users called Scholes “bitter” for publicly targeting a former team-mate during a managerial transition, while others agreed with his critique, pointing out United’s struggles to break down a 10-man Newcastle and questioning Carrick’s tactical depth when the gameplan falters.

Scholes has previously praised Carrick’s impact, saying, "Michael Carrick is doing great, it’s unbelievable the change," while also suggesting big clubs sometimes need a strong man-manager rather than the most technical coach.

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