Sir Alex Ferguson’s opinion on Scott McTominay speaks volumes | Football | Sport
Sir Alex Ferguson had high hopes for Scott McTominay, predicting he would become a Manchester United star before his transfer to Napoli. The midfielder netted an impressive first goal in Scotland’s 4-2 victory over Denmark. For the first time since 1998, Scotland will be participating in the World Cup after topping their qualifying group. In a thrilling match, they defeated Denmark at Hampden Park, securing their place in the tournament in North America.
McTominay scored the opening goal with a stunning overhead kick and is having a successful year, having clinched the league title with Napoli. The 28 year old moved to Italy from United in 2024. The midfielder was part of the Manchester club from the age of five and was highly valued by previous managers. Legendary manager Ferguson, in particular, believed he would achieve great things at Old Trafford before his departure, a decision United may now regret.
In 2021, Ferguson spoke about McTominay, who was beginning to establish himself in the first team and had even been named as a temporary captain for an FA Cup match.
The Scottish boss, who secured 13 Premier League titles at United, lauded McTominay and predicted that he would become, and had almost already become, one of the key players in his team.
“Scott McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players,” Ferguson told the Scottish FA. “When you watch Man United pick their team for a big game, McTominay’s name is in it. He’s a good character, a great trainer. I know a little bit about the boy and I think that’s the background.”
However, McTominay departed Old Trafford in August 2024 for £25.7million. Boss Erik ten Hag at the time even suggested he would have preferred to retain the Scotland international, but financial regulations meant the club’s options were limited due to the premium value homegrown talent commands under PSR rules.
“It is a little bit mixed,” said Ten Hag when asked about McTominay being sold. “I am very happy for him, but it is mixed because I wouldn’t prefer to lose him. He is Manchester United in everything. He was so important for Manchester United.
“He was here for over 22 years but unfortunately, it is the rules. Homegrown players bring more value and that is not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parties, it is a good deal. Scott is happy with it, and Napoli and us.”
Just over 12 months later and McTominay has claimed the Serie A MVP award following his instrumental contribution to Napoli’s championship triumph. The midfielder is now preparing for the World Cup after netting a spectacular strike, and United may well regret allowing such a key figure to leave the club.
Scotland captain and fellow team-mate of McTominay, Andy Robertson, expressed his joy after the historic victory, stating: “I’m so glad it’s ended up this way. This group of boys, this group of staff, it’s the best group I’ve been involved in.
“The manager’s speech before the game was unbelievable. He went through the big moments we’ve had. Qualifying for the Euros – he couldn’t quite remember – we were in Wunderbar. He said ‘Let’s make it another one.'”.
“We were quite emotional. To do it for him, the staff and all our families, it’ll go down as one of the greatest nights of my life. That just sums up this squad. Never say die.
“We just keep going right to the end and one of the craziest games. We put the country through it, but I’m sure it’s worth it. We’re going to the World Cup.”
