Scott McTominay statement speaks volumes as clear Man Utd message sent | Football | Sport
Scott McTominay appears to harbour no second thoughts about his departure from Manchester United, delivering a succinct 13-word message after claiming the Serie A Player of the Year honour at Monday evening’s Gran Gala del Calcio ceremony. “Coming to Napoli was an easy choice, I came to the right place,” the midfielder declared upon receiving the accolade, according to The Sun.
The Scottish international proved instrumental in Napoli’s Serie A title win last season, scoring 13 goals and providing six assists across all competitions under Antonio Conte. His impressive performances at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium earned him the Serie A MVP gong for the 2024-25 season.
McTominay’s maiden campaign away from Old Trafford proved remarkably successful, with his form extending into the current season as he helped Scotland secure their spot at the 2026 World Cup.
During Monday’s ceremony, the ex-United man spoke warmly of his connection with Napoli following his 2024 switch, saying: “It’s sensational, it’s incredible to be here and win this award.
“Thank you to everyone, the team, the staff, and my teammates. My bond with Napoli is special, there are so many special places here.”
The 28-year-old, who turned out 255 times for the Red Devils and found the net 29 times, also secured selection in a prestigious Serie A best XI. Manchester City‘s Tijani Reijnders featured in the line-up alongside Inter Milan duo Alessandro Bastoni and Federico Dimarco.
Manchester United fans have been left scratching their heads over the decision to offload McTominay, especially given his impressive start at Napoli. The Red Devils pocketed a mere £25million from the sale, a move that former United boss Erik ten Hag attributed to the need to adhere to PSR regulations.
Ten Hag lamented the loss of the influential midfielder, saying: “He was so important for our team,” and “He was at Manchester United for over 22 years. But unfortunately, it’s the rules. You have to discuss the rules to do sales, and obviously homegrown players, academy players, bring more value.”
Despite the circumstances, Ten Hag believes the deal was beneficial for all involved: “It’s not the right thing to do but, for everyone, for all parties, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it.
“Of course, for Napoli. (They are getting) a very good player. But also for us (it’s a good deal too).”
In hindsight, the £25million transfer fee seems like a steal for Napoli, particularly as McTominay would have fit perfectly into Ruben Amorim‘s 3-4-3 formation. McTominay is set to take to the pitch again for Napoli in their Coppa Italia showdown against Cagliari on Wednesday.
