A recent episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents on YouTube brought back memories of Paul Scholes’ brilliance, as Ferdinand and his guest talked about one of the Manchester United legend’s most iconic moves — a subtle but skillful body feint that left defenders running after shadows, Softfootball repots.
Ferdinand’s guest described it as his all-time favourite Scholes moment.
So my favorite Scholes’ move was that used to send defenders west. He said. He would have a little body feint towards the ball as it was coming towards him, let it roll, and then pick it up. Oh my, he’s took two players out — how’s he done that? He’s not even touched the ball.
Ferdinand went further to explain the technical challenge involved in the move:
But you know why you don’t see that often? Because it’s so hard to do. Your body weight’s giving over and past the ball from where it came from and then it’s on your weak foot. So your next touch with your weakest foot to set you up then pass. That’s what’s Scholes’ normal run was. He gets that yard but Scholes’ weren’t one to take two or three touches. He’d smash it straight away.
The move, though simple in appearance, required balance, timing, and control, all these qualities were also part of what defined Scholes’ career.
It was such a hard skill to do but it’s about awareness, about touch, spatial awareness as well and then the weight of the ball’s got to be right.”
Ferdinand explained.
So obviously, the weight of the ball is always right because it was me.
Those same qualities have often been linked to Kobbie Mainoo, one of United’s brightest young midfielders. His composure, intelligence, and ability to navigate through pressure has earned comparisons to Scholes but Mainoo’s current career situation has taken a turn.
Softfootball understands that the 20-year-old has told Manchester United his desire to leave on loan before the transfer window closes.
Mainoo reportedly told the club during a meeting while he remains loyal to United, he believes a temporary move is key to getting a steady first-team experience and furthering his growth as he lacks playing time at the club.
It’s a mature decision from a player many see as the closest replica of Scholes’ intelligence and confidence on the ball. At Old Trafford or somewhere else, Mainoo’s next steps could define how far his “Scholes-like” potential goes.
Watch the full clip on Rio Ferdinand’s YouTube channel.
