Anderson on Comparing Bruno Fernandes to Paul Scholes: 'Different Level' for Man Utd Legend
Anderson Weighs in on Fernandes vs. Scholes Debate
Bruno Fernandes has become a key figure for Manchester United, especially in midfield, but can he be compared to club legend Paul Scholes? Anderson, who shared the pitch with Scholes, explained his thoughts to GOAL.
Paul Scholes’ Legacy at Manchester United
Scholes made his first-team debut in 1993 after rising through the youth ranks alongside the likes of David Beckham and Gary Neville. He spent his entire career at Old Trafford, making 718 appearances under Sir Alex Ferguson. His contributions helped United dominate domestically and secure two Champions League trophies, including the famous Treble in 1998-99.
He scored 155 goals and was known for arriving late into the box to surprise defenders. His passing range and quickness also set up many teammates for goals.
Bruno Fernandes' Impact Today
Fernandes has matched some of those traits recently. Last season, he set a Premier League record with 21 assists in one campaign. Across all competitions, he has only once failed to hit double figures in goals during his time at United, reaching 111 goals in 334 games overall.
The Portuguese midfielder is a five-time Player of the Year for the club and earned the PFA Player of the Year award in 2025-26. Now captain, Fernandes is seen as a leader and is expected to extend his contract soon due to his importance.
Is Fernandes on Scholes’ Level?
Anderson addressed this question while speaking with BetVictor Online Casino. He said:
“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.
“I think Scholes is close to the most top players in midfield on the planet. I think Xavi, [Andres] Iniesta. Bruno I put closer to [Frank] Lampard, [Steven] Gerrard, as well as [Claude] Makelele. [Michael] Essien, for me, and [Toni] Kroos.
“I think they’re both in different positions. Scholes starts a bit deeper, playing both defensively and attacking. Bruno Fernandes is more midfield and attack, like when [Wayne] Rooney played. They’re completely different, but Scholes is Scholes. Scholes is a different planet.
“I played for eight years with him. Scholes isn’t just special on the pitch; it’s in training too. Sometimes I’d get annoyed running all over the place during matches and then the ball would come to Scholes for 10 minutes and he’d score. That always made me mad! That’s Scholes. Same in training. Amazing player, amazing person.”
Scholes' Departure and United's Title Drought
Scholes retired for the final time in 2013, following Ferguson’s departure. Since then, United have struggled to reclaim the Premier League title, enduring a 13-year wait.
Fernandes is among those tasked with bringing the club back to its peak. Despite carrying much of the burden, it remains uncertain if he will reach the heights of some of United’s greatest champions.
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