Few football legends are as universally admired in Britain as Paul Scholes. A Manchester United icon, England international, and one of the finest midfielders of his generation, Scholes’ influence on football is undeniable. Yet, in recent years, it’s not his sporting achievements making headlines—it’s his daughter, Alicia Scholes, whose growing online presence and viral moments have ignited conversation across the UK.
From her life as a netball player to her social media stardom, Alicia’s rise under the shadow of her famous father tells a fascinating story about fame, family, and the pressures of growing up in the digital age.
Who is Alicia Scholes?
Alicia Scholes was born in 2001, the daughter of Paul and Claire Scholes. Growing up in Oldham, Greater Manchester, she was raised in a tight-knit family that has always kept a relatively low profile—at least until recent years.
Unlike many celebrity children, Alicia didn’t immediately step into the limelight. Instead, she focused on sport, showing early promise in netball, a sport she has represented professionally. Her father’s career with Manchester United and England may have shaped public attention, but Alicia has carved her own path.
Alicia’s talent in netball saw her represent Manchester Thunder in the Vitality Netball Superleague, one of the top-tier competitions in the UK. She later played for London Pulse, continuing her progression as a promising athlete. Her commitment and work ethic mirror her father’s reputation on the pitch—a reflection of how sporting excellence can run in the family.
The Viral Moment That Sparked Online Debate
Alicia Scholes became a trending name across the UK in 2024 after a viral social media video featuring her and her father, Paul Scholes, circulated online. The clip showed Paul appearing to bite or nibble his daughter’s toenails—a bizarre and uncomfortable moment that led to widespread discussion, memes, and criticism on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram.
The video initially appeared on Alicia’s own Instagram story before being deleted, but it was quickly reposted and viewed millions of times. The reaction was swift, with many expressing confusion and others labelling it as inappropriate. While some defended the family, suggesting it was an innocent moment taken out of context, others argued it reflected a worrying lack of boundaries in celebrity households.
The incident also sparked deeper discussions on social media privacy, the objectification of women, and the impact of celebrity culture on young adults in the public eye.
For many, it became an uncomfortable reminder of how quickly personal family moments can be magnified online, often stripped of their original context. It also led to conversations about misogyny and public judgement, similar to broader debates explored in the UK around online gender bias and media treatment of women (read more about misogyny here).
Paul Scholes’ Reaction and Family Response
Paul Scholes, who rarely engages with media outside football punditry, didn’t directly comment on the incident. Known for his reserved and private nature, he chose silence rather than confrontation. His wife, Claire, also stayed away from the public conversation.
Alicia, however, continued to post on social media, focusing on her sports training, lifestyle content, and collaborations. Her decision to move past the controversy, rather than addressing it directly, drew mixed reactions. Some praised her for her confidence and resilience; others saw it as an attempt to downplay an awkward episode.
This incident highlighted a recurring tension in the age of influencer culture—where the lines between private life and public persona blur, particularly for those related to celebrities.
Life Beyond the Headlines: Alicia’s Netball Career
Despite the viral drama, Alicia Scholes remains committed to her sporting career. Her athletic talent is undeniable. Having been part of the England U21 training squad, she has continued to pursue her ambitions in netball.
Her time with Manchester Thunder showcased her technical ability, leadership, and determination. Teammates have described her as “driven, enthusiastic, and full of energy,” a reflection of her father’s relentless spirit during his playing days.
Alicia’s move to London Pulse represented an important step forward. Competing at the elite level in British netball demands not only skill but also mental toughness—something she has demonstrated in the face of intense public scrutiny.
While many know her as Paul Scholes’ daughter, those in the netball community see her as a promising athlete in her own right, contributing to the growth of women’s sport in the UK.
The Influence of Social Media and the Pressure of Fame
In today’s digital world, being related to a celebrity means inheriting more than just fame—it means dealing with an ever-watchful audience. Alicia’s presence on Instagram, where she has hundreds of thousands of followers, showcases her active lifestyle, fitness routines, and fashion choices.
But this visibility comes at a price. Social media experts warn that young women in the public eye often face double standards and criticism, especially when their actions are magnified by their family’s fame.
Dr. Laura Whitmore, a media psychologist at the University of Leeds, told The Guardian that “the scrutiny faced by daughters of male celebrities is often harsher and more personal, particularly when their online content involves physical appearance or family interactions.”
This observation resonates deeply with Alicia’s experience. While many followers celebrate her achievements and confidence, others have used online platforms to pass judgement or sexualise her content. It’s a reminder of the gendered dynamics of online fame and how women in sport often face unnecessary personal commentary alongside professional evaluation.
Media Treatment and Public Perception
British tabloids have often blurred the line between reporting and intrusion when it comes to celebrity families. Alicia Scholes’ case reflects a broader pattern in UK media—where the children of footballers, actors, and musicians become tabloid fixtures even without seeking fame.
The viral video controversy reignited debate over whether the media gives too much attention to private family moments, especially when the individuals involved are not public figures in their own right.
Public reaction was divided. Some social media users expressed discomfort, while others criticised the media for sensationalising what they saw as a harmless moment between a father and daughter. The debate became emblematic of a modern cultural dilemma—how much privacy can one expect in an era where personal moments are shared online?
Alicia Scholes and the Rise of Sports Influencers
In recent years, many female athletes have successfully combined professional sport with influencer careers. From Alex Scott to Chloe Kelly, sportswomen in the UK are leveraging social media to promote health, confidence, and empowerment.
Alicia’s growing digital profile fits this trend. She shares training videos, fashion collaborations, and glimpses into her personal life—creating a relatable and inspiring image for her followers.
Unlike her father’s generation, where sports figures were largely private, Alicia represents a new breed of digitally fluent athletes who understand the importance of online branding.
Her journey also highlights how young women in sport can build careers beyond the pitch or court, using their platforms to connect with fans and sponsors while promoting fitness and body positivity.
Public Fascination with Football Families
The British public has long been fascinated by football families—from the Beckhams to the Rooneys. Paul Scholes’ family is no exception. As one of the most respected figures in English football history, his children naturally attract attention.
But the dynamic is changing. Today’s generation of footballers’ children often use social media to tell their own stories, independent of their parents’ fame. This shift reflects broader cultural changes, where younger people reject the idea of being defined by their parents’ legacy.
Alicia Scholes embodies this independence. Her career in netball, her growing influence online, and her determination to stay authentic suggest a young woman intent on making her own mark, even in the shadow of one of England’s greatest players.
A Broader Look: Women in Sport and Representation
The rise of athletes like Alicia Scholes contributes to the visibility of women’s sport in the UK, which continues to grow in popularity and recognition. The Netball Superleague, for example, saw record audiences in recent seasons, boosted by coverage on Sky Sports and increasing public engagement.
Such progress mirrors the wider celebration of women’s achievements across British sport—from the Lionesses’ Euro 2022 victory to record-breaking attendances at women’s football and cricket matches.
With events like Remembrance Day approaching (learn more here), stories like Alicia’s also remind us of how sport continues to shape national identity and unity.
The Next Chapter for Alicia Scholes
As of late 2025, Alicia remains active in sport and social media, with speculation about her next professional move. Some reports suggest she may transition into coaching or sports media, following the path of many former athletes.
Whatever her next step, it’s clear that Alicia Scholes is more than just “Paul Scholes’ daughter.” She represents a generation of women navigating the complex intersection of sport, fame, and identity in the 21st century.
And while her journey has not been without controversy, it’s also one that mirrors the challenges and opportunities facing young women in the digital age.
Final Thoughts
Alicia Scholes’ story reflects far more than viral headlines. It offers insight into modern fame, gender expectations, and the evolving role of women in sport. Her resilience, confidence, and dedication show that being in the public eye doesn’t have to mean being defined by others.
In an era where online visibility can both empower and expose, Alicia stands as a reminder that individuality and authenticity still matter most. Her journey—from a promising netball player to a public figure balancing scrutiny and success—remains one of the most intriguing tales in modern British sports culture.
For those interested in the wider context of public life, from cultural celebrations like Diwali 2025 to local landmarks such as Wembley Park Station, the UK continues to celebrate stories that define its diverse and dynamic spirit.
FAQs About Paul Scholes’ Daughter
1. Who is Paul Scholes’ daughter?
Paul Scholes’ daughter is Alicia Scholes, a British netball player and social media influencer.
2. What does Alicia Scholes do for a living?
Alicia is a professional netball player who has represented teams like Manchester Thunder and London Pulse in the Netball Superleague.
3. Why was Alicia Scholes trending on social media?
She went viral after a controversial video involving her father, Paul Scholes, surfaced online, sparking widespread debate.
4. Is Alicia Scholes active on social media?
Yes, she regularly shares lifestyle, fashion, and fitness content on her Instagram, where she has a large following.
5. What’s next for Alicia Scholes?
She is expected to continue her netball career and possibly expand her presence in sports media or fitness coaching.