Former Patrice Evra has strongly defended interim manager Michael Carrick while criticizing fellow Manchester United F.C. legends Paul Scholes, Gary Neville and Roy Keane over what he described as unnecessary negativity.

Carrick has enjoyed an impressive start to life as Manchester United’s caretaker manager, winning seven of his first eight matches since taking charge of the team on an interim basis.

However, following United’s recent defeat to Newcastle United F.C. at St James’ Park, Scholes appeared to criticize Carrick’s approach in a social media post.

Neville and Keane have also previously expressed doubts about the idea of the former midfielder becoming United’s permanent manager at the end of the season.

Evra, who spent several successful years at Old Trafford, said he was disappointed by the lack of support from the former players toward Carrick.

“I hope Paul Scholes’ Instagram story is fake. To be honest, I’m not surprised at that from Scholesy,” Evra said in an interview with Stake, as quoted by Metro UK.

“I really don’t understand the lack of support behind Michael Carrick. He is one of us, and he is doing very well. There has been negative analysis from Scholesy, but also from Roy Keane and Gary Neville.”

Evra added that constant criticism from pundits could undermine the team at a time when Manchester United are pushing to secure a top-four finish.

“It annoys me because we want to be in the top four, and those comments are unnecessary, but this is what you do when you work in TV. You can’t be positive, you have to be negative,” he added.

Opinion: Criticism Is Part of the Game—But Timing Matters

Evra’s comments highlight a recurring debate in football: where to draw the line between honest analysis and damaging criticism.

Scholes, Neville and Keane are respected pundits known for their blunt opinions, and their analysis often reflects the high standards they once set as players. However, Evra’s argument also carries weight—especially when criticism comes during a period when the team appears to be improving.

Carrick’s record so far suggests he deserves at least some recognition for stabilizing the team. Winning seven of eight matches is no small achievement for a manager still proving himself at the highest level.

In modern football, former players turned pundits walk a fine line between loyalty to their club and their duty to provide honest commentary. The real question may not be whether criticism is fair—but whether it helps the team move forward. ⚽