Scholes will take on a coaching role at Manchester United from the start of next season.

United have also confirmed that Scholes will have an testimonial match in August.

United boss Sir Alex Ferguson told the club's official website: "What more can I say about Paul Scholes that I haven't said before. We are going to miss a truly unbelievable player.

"Paul has always been fully committed to this Club and I am delighted he will be joining the coaching staff from next season. Paul has always been inspirational to players of all ages and we know that will continue in his new role."

Scholes said: "I am not a man of many words but I can honestly say that playing football is all I have ever wanted to do and to have had such a long and successful career at Manchester United has been a real honour.

"This was not a decision that I have taken lightly but I feel now is the right time for me to stop playing. To have been part of the team that helped the Club reach that 19th title is a great privilege.

"I would like to thank the fans for their tremendous support throughout my career, I would also like to thank all the coaches and players that I have worked with over the years, but most of all I would like to thank Sir Alex for being such a great manager, from the day I joined the Club his door has always been open and I know this team will go on to win many more trophies under his leadership."