Manchester United fell to defeat against Arsenal in their Premier League opener on Sunday afternoon
12:39, 18 Aug 2025Updated 12:41, 18 Aug 2025
Paul Scholes ordered his daughter to take off her Arsenal shirt(Image: Getty Images)
Manchester United legend Paul Scholes ordered his daughter to remove an Arsenal shirt moments before the Sunday’s Premier League clash.
Ruben Amorim’s side hosted the north London outfit at Old Trafford on Sunday as both teams kicked off their fresh campaigns. United ultimately suffered defeat, with Riccardo Calafiori’s first-half header clinching triumph for the Gunners.
That outcome would hardly have improved Scholes’ disposition after an awkward opening few moments. His daughter Alicia, 24, captured her father’s reaction as she entered the sitting room sporting an Arsenal jersey.
And Scholes, 50, delivered a sharp response to her wardrobe selection, promptly declaring: “Take it off.” She swiftly declined that demand.
Alicia posted a video on Instagram capturing her father’s reaction to her wearing an Arsenal shirt
Alicia represents one of three offspring that Scholes shares with spouse Claire Froggatt. They also have 25-year old-son Arron, alongside Aiden, 20.
Alicia is presently pursuing a netball career. She features for London Pulse in the Netball Super League whilst also representing England at international level.
Scholes will undoubtedly hope that Alicia switches her loyalties in the near future. He has previously expressed optimism regarding an improved campaign at Old Trafford this season after their woeful displays last term.
Speaking before Sunday’s season opener, he remarked: “It’s a tricky one after being so bad last year. Now seasons can change. We saw last year with Nottingham Forest, it doesn’t have to take five to 10 years to get back where you want to be.
“Although it is looking better, I still think there are issues with the team. The midfield, I know we don’t want to go through it again. But, top six. I think top six would be more than acceptable.
“As much as you don’t want to say that, I always think Manchester United should aim for the very best and aim for the highest. I am just not sure. I think there are too many good teams now.
“I think Liverpool, Chelsea and City are all on the up. Arsenal [as well], I did not even mention Aston Villa, Newcastle. I think there is a lot of competition now to get top six.”
United return to action at the weekend when they make the trip to Fulham on Sunday afternoon. Scholes will be hoping that Alicia doesn’t opt to wear a Cottagers jersey this time round.
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