Anderson Weighs in on Bruno Fernandes Compared to Paul Scholes: ‘Different Level’
Bruno Fernandes has become a central figure for Manchester United, known for his influence in midfield. But can he be placed alongside the legendary Paul Scholes? Anderson, who shared the pitch with Scholes, spoke exclusively to GOAL about why the 11-time Premier League champion remains in a league of his own compared to the current captain.
Scholes' Manchester United Legacy
Making his senior debut in 1993 after rising through the youth system with stars like David Beckham and Gary Neville, Scholes dedicated his entire career to the club. He played 718 matches under Sir Alex Ferguson, helping United dominate domestically and win multiple Champions League titles, including the famous 1998-99 Treble season.
Scholes scored 155 goals, famed for his late runs into the box and exceptional passing skills that set up many teammates.
Fernandes' Impact at Old Trafford
Fernandes has followed a somewhat similar path, breaking Premier League records last season by providing 21 assists in a single campaign. Across 334 games, he has netted 111 goals, only missing double digits once in all competitions during his time at the club. The Portuguese midfielder has earned five Player of the Year awards from United and was named PFA Player of the Year in 2025-26.
At 32, Fernandes leads as captain and is expected to renew his contract soon, reflecting his key role in the squad.
Are Fernandes and Scholes on Equal Footing?
“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,” Anderson told GOAL.
Anderson placed Scholes among the very best midfielders worldwide, alongside Xavi and Andrés Iniesta. Fernandes, he said, aligns more with players like Frank Lampard, Steven Gerrard, Claude Makélélé, Michael Essien, and Toni Kroos.
“They play different roles. Scholes started in the middle, playing both defense and attack, while Bruno plays more forward, similar to when Wayne Rooney was on the field,” Anderson added. “They are totally different players, but Scholes is on another planet.”
He recalled moments from their eight years together, mentioning how frustrating it was when Scholes would score after seemingly little involvement, showing his immense skill even in training.
Man United’s Search for Glory Post-Scholes
Scholes retired for good in 2013, following Ferguson's departure. Since then, United has struggled to reclaim the Premier League crown, enduring a 13-year wait. Fernandes is part of the effort to restore the club’s former glory, often carrying the team on his shoulders.
Whether he will reach the heights of Scholes or join the ranks of England’s greatest champions remains to be seen.
- Premier League Fixture: Manchester United vs Tottenham Hotspur
- Date & Time: 10 Oct 2026, 19:30
- Venue: Old Trafford
