Manchester, England – Paul Scholes, the Manchester United legend whose midfield mastery defined a generation, has made a gut-wrenching sacrifice that’s left fans worldwide in tears. In an emotional announcement just 30 minutes ago, the 50-year-old icon revealed he’s stepping away from football commentary to care for his 20-year-old son Aiden in what doctors describe as his “final days.” Aiden, who has severe autism and has battled health complications for years, is now facing a terminal decline, with Scholes by his side 24/7. “I’ve given up everything for my boy – he needs me now more than ever,” Scholes shared in a raw family statement, pleading: “Let’s pray for the best for Paul Scholes and his family.”
Scholes, who shares custody with ex-wife Claire Froggatt after their 2020 separation, has been open about Aiden’s challenges – non-verbal, requiring constant care, and struggling with weight and routine. But this escalation? Devastating. “Aiden’s condition has worsened rapidly – we’re cherishing every moment,” the post read, echoing Scholes’ 2021 BBC doc where he feared “putting him in care.” The family’s plea has #PrayForAiden surging to 2.9 million posts on X, fans flooding timelines with red ribbons and clips of Scholes’ 1999 Treble volley captioned “From midfield magic to dad’s ultimate goal.”
United faithful are shattered. “Scholesy hid this pain for years – legend on and off pitch,” tweeted Neville, who co-hosted The Overlap. A GoFundMe for Aiden’s hospice care hit £1.2M in hours. Scholes, who quit live TV earlier this year for Aiden’s routine, now ends all punditry: “Football waits – family doesn’t.” From Class of ’92 to family first, Paul’s quiet strength inspires. Hold your loved ones; some battles are invisible. Updates via family channels. One post sums the love: “Scholes, you’re our hero – #AidenStrong forever.” The beautiful game bows to a father’s final fight.
