Manchester United icon Paul Scholes has delivered a stark warning to his former club, suggesting they should avoid appointing Enzo Maresca as their next manager, despite strong links to the Italian.
Scholes' Surprise Verdict on Maresca's Future
Scholes, speaking on The Good, The Bad and The Football podcast, stated he "wouldn't be surprised" if Maresca became a top target for United's hierarchy in the wake of Ruben Amorim's sacking. However, the former England midfielder believes it would be a significant misstep.
United dismissed Amorim on Monday, January 5, 2026, following a troubled 14-month reign. The club finished a dismal 15th in the Premier League last season and has shown little improvement this term. Amorim's tenure was also marred by public clashes with the club's board over transfer strategy and interference.
With former midfielder Darren Fletcher taking interim charge, the club plans to appoint a caretaker before making a permanent decision in the summer. Early contenders include Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner and England boss Thomas Tuchel.
Why Maresca Fits the City Blueprint, Not United's
Scholes argues that Maresca's philosophy aligns perfectly with Manchester City, where he once worked as an assistant to Pep Guardiola, rather than the needs of Manchester United.
"Is Maresca the right man for Man United? I don't see it," Scholes said. "He's that Man City style of manager. Maresca does feel like a really good replacement for him at Man City. He doesn't feel right for Man United but he does for Man City."
His view was supported by fellow United legend Nicky Butt, who added: "If I was a Man City fan I would want to get him in. He knows the club's philosophy, he knows how Pep works and it wouldn't be too much of a change."
Guardiola's contract at the Etihad runs until the end of the 2026/27 season, and club officials reportedly see Maresca as a potential long-term successor.
The Complications of a Potential Old Trafford Move
Scholes also pointed to a major red flag regarding any United move for Maresca, relating directly to why Amorim failed. Maresca left Chelsea reportedly due to a lack of total control over football matters.
"He's left Chelsea because he didn't have total control – is he going to come to United given why Amorim left?" Scholes questioned, highlighting the apparent power struggle at Old Trafford.
He suggested that connections between Maresca and United's football leadership, including ex-City employees Jason Wilcox and Omar Berrada, might make the Italian seem a "safe bet". However, the fundamental issue of managerial autonomy remains a significant obstacle.
The news comes as Chelsea, now under interim management, secured a 1-1 draw against Manchester City with a last-gasp equaliser in their first match post-Maresca.
