Paul Scholes gives ‘quadruple’ verdict as Manchester United set up decider v Barcelona

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Paul Scholes says he is ‘not joking’ when he claims Manchester United could go on to win an unprecedented quadruple this season.

Scholes was speaking after seeing Manchester United go toe-to-toe with Barcelona at the Nou Camp, earning a 2-2 draw.

United were unlucky not to win the game, showing real quality against La Liga’s top ranked side.

Marcus Rashford scored the opener, before a Jules Kounde own goal. United had led 2-1, before Raphinha levelled the scoring late in the second half.

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Scholes quadruple verdict

The draw sets up an enthralling decider in a week’s time at Old Trafford. This competition is still at an early stage of the knockout rounds, but defeating Barcelona would be a real statement.

Manchester United are alive in four competitions, with the Carabao Cup final to take place at the end of the month.

The team face West Ham at home in the FA Cup fifth round, while sitting just five points off the top of the Premier League.

Scholes told BT Sport: “The quadruple is still on. I’m not joking. Every game is a big game.

“[Against] Newcastle get the first one out the way, get a trophy under your belt, and who knows what could happen.”

Scholes is speaking from experience. He was part of Manchester United’s Treble winning squad in 1998/99. Sir Alex Ferguson’s side kept going in all competitions, and saw it all fall into place down the stretch.

Erik ten Hag is in an envious position. This time last season United’s season was practically over. Just to be discussing winning one trophy, is a sign of progress.

You won’t catch many United fans talking like Scholes is right now. We can dream, but to voice it, is another matter entirely.

Manchester United have not won a trophy since 2017, and just winning one, would make this a successful season. But as Scholes says, let’s get the first one out the way, and who knows. But a big tie against Barcelona awaits first.