Paul Scholes joked Soccer Aid were 'taking the mick' with sky blue Old Trafford flags

Paul Scholes took a playful swipe at Soccer Aid organisers ahead of the 2023 charity fixture at Old Trafford after the stadium was decorated with sky blue and white flags — colours more associated with city rivals Manchester City than his beloved United.

The former midfielder posted a photo of the capacity crowd on Instagram with the caption: “Somebody has to be taking the p*** with these flags.” The flags are a long-standing feature of Soccer Aid events, but their colour scheme clearly did not sit well with one of United’s most decorated alumni.

Scholes had plenty to celebrate on the pitch despite his pre-match grievance. He rolled back the years to score a stunning long-range drive that put England 2-1 up against the World XI, only to be forced off after falling awkwardly in a collision with former United team-mate Nani. The World XI ultimately won 4-2.

After the game, Scholes updated fans on his injury via Instagram with characteristic bluntness: “Knee’s f**, but couldn’t give two s**. Nothing will ever give me a better feeling than playing in front of a full house at Old Trafford and scoring a goal. Great couple of days with some very funny people.”

The 51-year-old has now featured in Soccer Aid on three occasions. During his 19-year professional career at United, he made more than 700 appearances and won 25 trophies, including 11 Premier League titles and two Champions League titles.

Soccer Aid was co-founded by pop star Robbie Williams and TV presenter Jonathan Wilkes in support of UNICEF, the global children’s charity. This year’s edition marks the 20th anniversary of the event. The 2026 fixture takes place on Sunday, 31 May at the London Stadium in Stratford, with a 6.30pm kick-off.

The England squad for this year’s match includes footballing names such as Wayne Rooney, Jermain Defoe, Jill Scott and Jack Wilshere, alongside celebrity participants including actors Tom Hiddleston and Danny Dyer, comedian Jack Whitehall, and TV personality Sam Thompson.