Paul Scholes Leaves TV Work to Care for His Son with Severe Autism

Former Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has stepped away from television to take full-time care of his 20-year-old son, Aiden, who suffers from a severe, non-verbal form of autism.

Aiden requires round-the-clock supervision from his parents. Diagnosed at a young age, he is unable to speak and communicates emotions in other ways — sometimes by biting or scratching himself and others. During his time working as a pundit, fans occasionally noticed Scholes appearing with scratches on his face, which he never publicly explained.

Medical care has always been complicated. Aiden cannot simply sit through a doctor’s or dentist’s appointment — even dental check-ups require sedation with gas because of his condition.

Family challenges

Five years ago, Paul’s wife left him after 27 years of marriage. Despite the separation, the couple share care duties equally — three nights each per week — to maintain Aiden’s strict daily routine. For example, every Tuesday, Paul takes his son swimming and then they go out for pizza together.

But things have become harder as Aiden has grown older and gained weight. This season, Scholes has not appeared at a single match as a TV expert. He has made a clear decision:

“From now on, everything I do will be connected to my son and his needs.”

On social media, Scholes changed his profile photo to a picture of himself with Aiden, symbolizing the new chapter in his life.

Strength to you, Scholes.

Published by Patrick Jane
30.10.2025