Bruno Fernandes Compared to Paul Scholes? Former Man Utd Midfielder Says They Are on Different Levels
Bruno Fernandes has grown into a key figure for Manchester United in midfield, but how does he stack up against club legend Paul Scholes? Anderson, who shared the pitch with the 11-time Premier League champion, shared his thoughts exclusively with GOAL.
Paul Scholes’ Legacy at Manchester United
Scholes debuted in 1993 after rising through the youth system alongside stars like David Beckham and Gary Neville. He stayed loyal to the club throughout his career, making 718 appearances under Sir Alex Ferguson. Scholes helped United dominate domestically while also winning two Champions League titles, including the unforgettable Treble-winning season of 1998-99.
The midfielder scored 155 goals for the Red Devils and earned a reputation for timing his runs into the box perfectly. His exceptional passing and quick feet created numerous scoring chances for teammates.
Fernandes’ Impact at Old Trafford
In recent times, Fernandes has shown similar traits. Last season, he set a Premier League record with 21 assists in a single campaign. While he didn’t hit double digits in goals last year, overall he has netted 111 times in 334 games for United.
The Portuguese star has won the club’s Player of the Year award five times and was named PFA Player of the Year for the 2025-26 season. As captain, he leads by example and is expected to sign a new deal soon, reflecting his importance to the team.
Are Fernandes and Scholes on Equal Footing?
Anderson, speaking in partnership with BetVictor Online Casino, weighed in: “I think Bruno Fernandes is amazing, has amazing qualities, amazing player. He’s a top player in this time, but I think Scholes is a different level. He’s a completely different level.”
He compared Scholes to midfield greats like Xavi and Iniesta, placing Fernandes alongside players like Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Claude Makelele, Michael Essien, and Toni Kroos.
Anderson explained their differing roles: “Scholes would start in the middle, dropping back to defend and also attacking. Fernandes is more midfield and attack, similar to Wayne Rooney’s position. They’re both different players, but Scholes is a different planet.”
Sharing memories, Anderson added: “I played eight years with Scholes. On the pitch and in training, he was incredible. Sometimes it made me annoyed when I ran everywhere and the ball came to Scholes for ten minutes and he scored. That’s Scholes. Amazing player, amazing person.”
After Scholes: The Challenge for Manchester United
Scholes retired for good in 2013, coinciding with Sir Alex Ferguson's departure. Since then, United have struggled to reclaim the Premier League title, enduring a 13-year wait.
Fernandes is one of the leaders tasked with bringing glory back to Old Trafford. Although he often carries the team, whether he will reach the heights of past champions remains uncertain.
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