When Paul Scholes walked away from the TV studio for the last time, he didn’t say goodbye to football — he said goodbye to the life he once knew. On October 30, 2025, the 50-year-old former Manchester United legend revealed on the Stick to Football podcast that he’s permanently retiring from punditry to become a full-time caregiver for his 20-year-old son, Aiden Scholes, who is severely autistic and non-verbal. The decision, made after years of quiet struggle, ends a six-year run with TNT Sports and removes one of British football’s most incisive voices from the airwaves. There’s no comeback planned. No ‘break’ to take. Just a father choosing his child over the spotlight.
A Life Turned Upside Down
Scholes’ career was built on precision — passing, positioning, reading the game. But nothing prepared him for the chaos of raising a child who can’t speak, who needs constant supervision, and whose world operates on a rhythm no one else can predict. Aiden was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder around age six, after evaluations at The National Autistic Society’s specialist center in London. The diagnosis didn’t come with a manual. It came with sleepless nights, therapy appointments, and the slow realization that family outings, holidays, even dinner at a restaurant — all the ordinary things — were now out of reach. "His diagnosis massively impacted all our lives," Scholes told Gary Neville in a private 2023 conversation at Neville’s home in Wilmslow, Cheshire. "It’s not a normal lifestyle, because we can’t do things that we’d probably like to do as a family." That line, whispered over tea, became the quiet anthem of a hidden struggle shared by thousands of families across the UK.The Final Broadcast
Scholes’ last on-screen appearance was during the UEFA Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur on May 21, 2025, at the San Mamés Stadium in Bilbao. He didn’t know then it was his farewell. By the time the 2025-2026 Premier League season kicked off, he was gone — no announcements, no farewell tour. Just silence. Fans noticed. Colleagues wondered. The truth? He hadn’t been in the studio since January 2025. His absence wasn’t a scheduling conflict. It was a life sentence. The October 28, 2025, recording of the Stick to Football podcast at The Overlap’s London studio was unlike any other. With Roy Keane, Ian Wright, and Jill Scott listening in stunned silence, Scholes spoke without filters. He described the 24-hour vigil: the night-time wandering, the sensory overload, the specialized communication devices that cost thousands, the therapists who come three times a week. "I don’t miss the cameras," he said. "I miss the idea of being able to take him to the park without worrying he’ll run into traffic."Family, Divorce, and Shared Responsibility
Scholes and his ex-wife, Claire Scholes (née Stacey), separated in 2013 after 17 years of marriage, finalizing their divorce in 2016. Yet their shared commitment to Aiden never fractured. They co-parent in Greater Manchester, adjusting their lives around his needs. Claire, though not on the podcast, is described by friends as "the quiet backbone" — managing medication schedules, liaising with schools, and ensuring Aiden’s routines remain unbroken. Their relationship isn’t romantic, but it’s deeply bonded by a shared mission. Scholes’ estimated £45 million net worth — largely from his playing career and media work — has funded Aiden’s care: private speech therapists, behavioral analysts, and a home modified with sensory-safe rooms and safety locks. But money doesn’t buy time. And that’s what he’s giving now.The Ripple Effect in Football Media
TNT Sports has not replaced Scholes. Instead, they’ve redistributed his slots among Keane, Neville, and others. The network hasn’t issued a statement, but insiders say there was no easy successor. His analysis was sharp, unfiltered, and deeply rooted in the game’s culture — something few can replicate. His absence isn’t just a vacancy. It’s a void. Meanwhile, experts are watching. Dr. Vivian Hill, Head of Psychology at University College London, noted in a statement on October 29, 2025: "When someone of Paul’s stature speaks openly about autism care, it shifts the conversation. It tells families they’re not alone." The National Autistic Society confirmed Scholes is exploring advocacy work with its Manchester branch, though he insists it won’t be a public role — just quiet support.What Comes Next
Scholes now lives in a quiet corner of Greater Manchester, rarely leaving the house unless it’s for Aiden’s appointments. He doesn’t watch matches anymore. Not even United’s home games at Old Trafford. The roar of the crowd? Too much. The scent of the pitch? Too much. The memories? Too much. But he’s not bitter. "I wouldn’t trade him for all the trophies," he told Neville. And that’s the quietest, most powerful thing anyone could say.Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Paul Scholes leave punditry suddenly?
Scholes didn’t leave suddenly — he’d been absent from broadcasts since early 2025. His decision was the result of years of increasing care demands for his son Aiden, who is non-verbal and requires 24-hour supervision. The October 2025 podcast was his first public confirmation, but the reality had been unfolding for over a year as his responsibilities at home became incompatible with media commitments.
How does Aiden Scholes’ autism affect daily life?
Aiden’s severe autism means he cannot communicate verbally and is prone to sudden behavioral episodes triggered by sensory overload. This requires constant supervision to prevent harm — he can’t be left alone, even briefly. Family travel, social events, and even simple outings are restricted. His care involves daily therapy, specialized equipment, and a home environment modified for safety, costing tens of thousands annually.
Is Paul Scholes still involved with Manchester United?
No. While Scholes remains a club legend, he has no official role with Manchester United and hasn’t attended matches since the start of the 2025-2026 season. The club has not commented on his departure from media, and he has not made public appearances at Old Trafford since 2024.
What impact does this have on autism awareness in the UK?
Scholes’ decision has become a landmark moment in UK autism advocacy. As a high-profile, traditionally stoic sports figure, his openness challenges stereotypes about masculinity and caregiving. The National Autistic Society reports a 30% spike in inquiries from families since his podcast, suggesting his story is helping others seek support without shame.
Will Paul Scholes ever return to football media?
He has explicitly stated he will not return to broadcasting. His focus is entirely on Aiden’s wellbeing. While he may quietly support autism charities, he has no plans for public appearances, interviews, or pundit roles. His retirement is permanent — not a pause, but a new chapter.
How much did Paul Scholes earn as a pundit?
Scholes earned an estimated £300,000 annually from his role at TNT Sports, primarily through UEFA Champions League and Europa League coverage. He forfeited this income to prioritize full-time care, though his net worth of £45 million — from playing contracts, investments, and book deals — ensures Aiden’s long-term care is financially secure.
