Napoli chief’s telling McTominay comments after Man Utd return links | Football | Sport
A possible Scott McTominay return to Manchester United looks unlikely – at least if Napoli sporting director Giovanni Manna’s latest comments are anything to go by. Since his move to the Serie A club in 2024, the Scotland international has flourished, becoming one of Europe’s most influential midfielders.
He was key to Napoli’s title triumph last season, scoring 12 goals in 34 appearances and being named Serie A’s Most Valuable Player. His rapid rise in Italy has prompted many to describe United’s £30million sale as one of the club’s biggest transfer missteps in recent years. Over the last 18 months, fans have increasingly voiced a desire for a reunion and recent reports even hinted at a surprise return to Old Trafford for the 29-year-old. However, those rumours have been tempered by Manna, who highlighted McTominay’s importance when discussing Napoli’s transfer approach for January.
“We’re waiting for [Frank] Anguissa, who is an important player, to come back,” Manna said. “We’ve missed him a lot. McTominay is showing that he can be decisive in that role. The coach will make his evaluations.”
McTominay has been almost ever-present in Antonio Conte’s line-up since arriving in Naples. Although he hasn’t matched last season’s scoring feats, he has still delivered at crucial moments this term, netting key goals against Inter Milan in Serie A and PSV in the Champions League.
Napoli are not looking to part with their star midfielder, although some reports indicate they could entertain offers around £60m. With United seeking more dynamism in midfield – and with Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo potentially leaving the club this year – McTominay’s name has naturally come up as a target.
Nonetheless, such a transfer seems doubtful. Sir Jim Ratcliffe has openly stated he wants to avoid expensive moves for older players and a deal at that price would contradict the club’s evolving plans.
There is also uncertainty surrounding United’s recruitment after Ruben Amorim’s sacking, leaving it unclear which positions they will prioritise this window – if any.
McTominay may also have no desire to return. The former United player is clearly thriving in Italy and his status as Napoli’s talisman would be difficult to replicate back at Old Trafford.
Part of the reason he left in the first place was this lack of recognition. Despite consistent performances for club and country over the seven years he spend in United’s senior squad, McTominay was never treated like a superstar and often played in roles and positions that didn’t really suit him.
It therefore seems increasingly likely that his future lies in Naples, where he has gained the freedom and recognition that he lacked in Manchester. For United fans, witnessing a former player succeed on a big stage may be painful – but it also demonstrates that sometimes a fresh environment is exactly what is needed for a player to reach their full potential.
