According to a report by Football365 on Saturday, November 7, 2026, former Manchester United midfielder Paul Scholes has named five high-profile footballers he would recruit if given the opportunity to rebuild the squad and restore the club’s position among Europe’s leading teams.

The United legend included Arsenal duo Gabriel Magalhaes and Declan Rice in his preferred selections, alongside Real Madrid stars Jude Bellingham and Kylian Mbappe, as well as Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise.

Scholes believes the five players possess the quality needed to strengthen different areas of Manchester United’s squad and help the club compete for major domestic and European trophies.

One of his defensive choices is Gabriel Magalhaes, who has established himself as an important figure in Arsenal’s backline. The Brazilian defender is known for his physical strength, aerial ability and effectiveness in dealing with opposing attackers. His contributions during attacking set pieces also make him a valuable option in the opposition’s penalty area.

In midfield, Scholes identified Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham as another player who could improve United’s squad. The England international combines technical quality, physical strength and intelligent movement, allowing him to influence matches in both defensive and attacking situations.

Bellingham’s ability to move forward and create goalscoring opportunities, particularly through his late runs into the penalty area, could also provide Manchester United with an additional attacking threat from midfield.

Another player who attracted Scholes’ attention is Bayern Munich’s Michael Olise. The French winger has demonstrated considerable creativity, particularly through his dribbling, passing and ability to create opportunities in attacking areas.

His capacity to beat defenders, deliver dangerous balls into the penalty area and operate effectively in wide positions could give United greater attacking variety and improve their creativity in the final third.

Scholes also named Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe among his preferred signings. The France international is renowned for his exceptional pace, movement and finishing ability, qualities that could make him a major attacking asset for Manchester United.

His versatility would also allow him to operate either as a central striker or from the left wing, giving the team additional tactical options. His goalscoring record and attacking threat are among the qualities that could help United compete for the biggest honours.

Meanwhile, Scholes made a change to his fifth selection after initially considering Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane. He eventually opted for Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice instead.

Rice’s defensive discipline, ability to recover possession, passing range and leadership qualities were among the attributes that made him his preferred choice for the position.

Although there is no indication that Manchester United are pursuing deals for any of the five players, Scholes’ selections highlight the calibre of footballers he believes the club would need to improve its squad.

His choices cover the defensive, midfield and attacking departments, reflecting his view that strengthening several positions would be necessary for Manchester United to return to challenging consistently for major trophies.