Resurgent Scott McTominay continues to go from stride to stride at Napoli, suggesting Manchester United have erred in letting him go.
While he may have been deemed surplus to requirements at Old Trafford, Antonio Conte is enjoying a fruitful relationship with the Scot. It comes after McTominay netted his first Serie A goal in Napoli’s 3-1 victory over Como on Friday, indicating Erik ten Hag and Sir Alex Ferguson were right to want the player to remain in Manchester.
The Mirror reported as the Scotland international took just 26 seconds to score his first goal in Italy’s top flight as a timely reminder to his old club. McTominay, 27, already marked his Coppa Italia debut with a goal in Napoli’s recent win over Palermo, then he provided an assist against Monza to continue his impressive start in new surroundings.
The success of the 54-cap star will sting even more considering Ten Hag never wished to let him go. Moreover, McTominay had previously received support from United legend Ferguson, who wanted to see the player thrive at his boyhood club.
“It is a little bit mixed,” said Ten Hag following the midfielder’s departure. “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 parts, it is a good deal. Scott is happy with it, and Napoli and us.”
Ferguson once said he found it “very rewarding” to witness Scott McTominay’s rise through United’s ranks having contributed to his early development. The Old Trafford icon was undoubtedly filled with pride at McTominay’s success, and perhaps disappointment when United decided to offload their homegrown talent.
“Scott McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players,” said Sir Alex during a chat with the Scottish FA in 2021. “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.”
While he may have enjoyed some impressive moments under Ten Hag, McTominay faced challenges in securing a permanent spot in the United XI. The player racked up 205 appearances for the Red Devils over the past five seasons before moving to Italy for a relatively modest sum of around £25 million.
It appears Ten Hag’s loss will indeed be Conte’s gain judging by the Scotsman’s early impact in Serie A. And McTominay’s early Italian success stands out as a stark reminder of the questionable decision-making that has affected United in recent years.