Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt have teamed up with actor Tom Hiddleston to put together a Marvel-themed starting XI, bringing together some of the universe’s most iconic characters in a footballing twist.
The two Manchester United legends joined the Loki star to blend tactical reasoning with superhero flair to build an imaginative lineup.
The result is a mix of football logic and Marvel fandom – and a reminder of how sport and pop culture often collide.
While the team only includes nine players, each one fits a specific role, with Nick Fury taking charge from the touchline. It’s a side built around leadership, physicality and unpredictability.
Paul Scholes and Nicky Butt’s Marvel-inspired football side
- Goalkeeper: Spider-Man
- Centre Backs: Captain America (C), Hulk, Thor
- Central Defensive Midfielder: Iron Man
- Central Attacking Midfielder: Loki
- Left Winger: Black Panther
- Right Winger: Black Widow
- Striker: Hawkeye
Manager: Nick Fury
Football meets the Marvel universe
The segment was part of The Good, The Bad, and The Football’s look at the lighter side of the game. By blending tactical imagination with Marvel’s cinematic icons, the exercise captured how sport and entertainment often overlap.
Scholes and Butt’s involvement reflected the humour that underpins their podcast, while Hiddleston’s inclusion of Loki as the creative midfielder offered a fitting nod to his on-screen alter ego.
The discussion balanced insight and playfulness, showing how footballers can bring their competitive mindset to any challenge – even one involving superheroes.
The Marvel XI may not be a full team, but it highlighted the shared language between players and fans: imagination, teamwork and a sense of fun.
In the end, the only real challenge might be convincing Hulk to stay on his feet during corners.
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