Overview
- Scholes said on The Overlap that he would choose Tonali as the league's top midfielder, adding that he rates him ahead of Declan Rice.
- He argued Moises Caicedo is not an all‑round midfielder, praising his ball‑winning but favoring players who control games and contribute goals.
- Scholes praised Rice's qualities but suggested he can take too many touches, contrasting that with his preference for Tonali's style.
- Tonali joined Newcastle from AC Milan in 2023 for about £55m, became a regular under Eddie Howe, and featured heavily as the club won the Carabao Cup and qualified for the Champions League.
- Howe has likened Tonali to Andrea Pirlo, highlighting his technique, tactical intelligence and notable athleticism.