Paul Scholes Picks Newcastle Star as Premier League’s Best Midfielder Over Declan Rice

Paul Scholes Picks Sandro Tonali as Premier League’s best midfielder, joining the debate with Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher over Rice and Caicedo.

Manchester United legend Paul Scholes picks Sandro Tonali as the Premier League’s best midfielder, ahead of Arsenal’s Declan Rice and Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo.

Speaking on The Overlap, the Manchester United legend praised Tonali’s intelligence, control, and versatility, calling him a “complete midfielder” who outshines his high-profile rivals.

“I love Sandro Tonali… He’s been brilliant. Very good. I would probably choose Tonali at this point,” Scholes said. “Yes, you’re going to say Declan Rice, but I think he’s better than Rice.”

Paul Scholes’ Verdict on Tonali

Scholes highlighted how Tonali has transformed Newcastle’s midfield since his £55 million arrival from AC Milan. His ability to blend defensive awareness with creative play has impressed pundits across the board.

“Tonali plays with calmness, style, and purpose,” Scholes added. “Caicedo breaks up play well, Rice is powerful — but Tonali controls games.”

Scholes’ comments sparked debate online, especially as they contrast with recent takes from Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher, who also named their top Premier League midfielders.

Carragher and Neville Join the Midfield Debate

Earlier this week, Gary Neville praised Chelsea’s Moises Caicedo, calling him “the best midfield player in the league at the moment” after his standout goal against Liverpool.

Neville argued that Caicedo’s energy, tackling, and tactical intelligence make him the league’s most dominant midfielder right now.

However, Jamie Carragher offered a strong counterpoint on Sky Sports’ Extra Time, siding with Declan Rice instead:

“If you’re talking all-round midfielder, Declan Rice would just pip Caicedo for me. I think he’s got that extra bit of quality with the ball.”

Carragher emphasized Rice’s consistency and influence at Arsenal, praising his leadership and ability to dictate play in high-pressure moments.

Now, with Scholes adding Tonali into the conversation, the debate has evolved into a fascinating three-way contest between Rice, Caicedo, and Tonali — each representing a different style of midfield mastery.

Comparing the Midfield Trio

Scholes comments reignited debate about the Premier League’s best midfielders.

Declan Rice, Arsenal’s £105 million signing, continues to impress with consistency and leadership. He helped Mikel Arteta’s side push for the title and starred for England in back-to-back European Championship finals.

Meanwhile, Moises Caicedo, who cost Chelsea £115 million, has had mixed form since his arrival from Brighton. He recently impressed with a goal against Liverpool but still divides opinion.

Scholes explained his stance:

“I don’t class Caicedo as an all-round midfielder. He’s great at breaking up play, but I prefer players who control games and score goals.”

He also noted that Rice sometimes “takes a few too many touches” and suggested he has yet to reach his peak potential under Arteta.

Fans on social media were quick to react.

Arsenal fans defended Rice’s consistency and leadership.

Chelsea supporters shared Caicedo’s stats, showing his dominance in tackles and interceptions.

Newcastle fans celebrated Scholes’ recognition of Tonali’s rapid rise in England.

Carragher summed up the debate best:

“It’s a close race. You can make a case for all three, depending on what type of midfielder you prefer.”

Paul Scholes admiration for Tonali reflects his own technical, intelligent, and composed playing style. His preference adds a fresh dimension to the growing conversation about what defines a world-class midfielder in today’s Premier League.

Whether fans agree with Scholes, Neville, or Carragher, one thing is certain — the battle for midfield supremacy is far from over.

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