Former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has launched a stinging critique of Arsenal legend Martin Keown's broadcasting style, accusing him of excessive bias during live match coverage.
Scholes' Scathing Social Media Comparison
The incident occurred on Saturday, December 6, 2025, during TNT Sports' coverage of Aston Villa's dramatic 2-1 victory over Arsenal at Villa Park. Taking to Instagram, Scholes did not hold back in his assessment of Keown's co-commentary performance.
"Listening to Keown on TNT is like listening to Paddy Crerand on MUTV," Scholes wrote, drawing a direct parallel with the famously partisan former Manchester United player who commentates on the club's own television channel.
Scholes' remark highlights the ongoing debate about former players providing analysis on matches involving their old clubs. While Sky Sports regularly uses Gary Neville for Manchester United games and Jamie Carragher for Liverpool fixtures, Scholes clearly felt Keown's approach crossed a line.
Royal Intervention and Keown's Reaction
Keown managed to attract criticism from another high-profile figure during the match. Before Villa's Emiliano Buendía scored a late winner, Keown awarded Arsenal captain Martin Ødegaard the Man of the Match honour in the 89th minute.
This decision prompted a response from Prince William, a well-known Aston Villa supporter. The Prince of Wales used the Kensington Royal X account to voice his disagreement, writing: "Surely Emi Buendia for man of the match @footballontnt?! An incredible game! UTV!"
When confronted about having "ruffled some royal feathers," Keown offered a humorous apology. "I'm really sorry that I've upset royalty, but I actually gave it out – can you believe it – in the 89th minute. I was a bit early," he said. "We can unofficially do it [give Buendia Man of the Match]. I don't want to be court-martialled!"
The Context of Club Bias in Broadcasting
Scholes' comparison to Paddy Crerand is particularly pointed. Crerand, a Manchester United icon who made over 300 appearances for the club in the 1960s and 70s, winning two First Division titles and the European Cup, is known for his unabashed Red Devils bias on MUTV.
Keown, a former England defender who won three league titles with Arsenal, found himself in the familiar position of analysing his old team during a crucial Premier League clash. The result itself – a late victory for Villa – injected fresh drama into the title race, but the post-match discussion was equally dominated by the commentary box controversy.
The episode underscores the fine line pundits must walk between providing expert insight drawn from deep club knowledge and maintaining the impartiality expected of broadcasters. While fan channels like MUTV embrace partisan perspectives, national sports networks face different expectations from their audience.
