Manchester United’s Missed Opportunity: The Rise of Scott McTominay in Naples
In the summer of 2024, Manchester United made a decision that seemed, at the time, like a sensible move to streamline their squad. Scott McTominay, a product of their academy who had been a reliable but not necessarily irreplaceable player, was sold to Napoli for £25.7 million. While some fans and pundits viewed him as a useful squad player, others felt his departure would not significantly impact the team. However, it didn’t take long for McTominay to prove them wrong. His meteoric rise in Serie A has not only made United question their decision but has also turned him into one of the most sought-after midfielders in Europe.
McTominay’s Impact in Italy: A Star is Born
In his inaugural season with Napoli, McTominay quickly established himself as a cornerstone of the team. He featured in 34 league games, netting 12 goals and providing six assists, contributing significantly to Napoli’s historic Serie A title win. His performances were so impressive that he was crowned the Serie A MVP for the 2024/25 season and earned a place in the Team of the Season. McTominay’s stats from that season speak volumes about his impact: 18 goal contributions in a single season is a remarkable achievement for any midfielder.
A Strong Start to the New Campaign
Carrying his exceptional form into the current campaign, McTominay has continued to excel. In just 17 appearances across all competitions, he has already registered five goals and three assists. This solid start has only further cemented his reputation as one of the best midfielders in Europe. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively has made him an invaluable asset to Napoli, and his leadership and work ethic have won him the admiration of fans, teammates, and coaches alike.
Premier League Links Resurface: A Return to England?
Given his outstanding performances, it’s no surprise that McTominay has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs. Everton, Arsenal, and Tottenham Hotspur have all been linked with a move for the 28-year-old, and Manchester United themselves have been tipped to explore the possibility of re-signing their former academy graduate. The idea of bringing McTominay back to Old Trafford has gained traction among fans and pundits, who believe his dynamic and athletic profile would be a perfect fit for Ruben Amorim’s midfield.
McTominay Drops a Telling Hint: A Heart Tied to Naples
However, the player himself may have put those speculations to rest. Speaking after being crowned Serie A Player of the Year 2025, McTominay expressed his deep connection to Napoli. He said, “It’s sensational, it’s incredible to be here and win this award. Thank you to everyone, the team, the staff, and my teammates.” He then added a significant hint about his future: “My bond with Napoli is special; there are so many special places here. Coming to Napoli was an easy choice; I came to the right place.” These words clearly indicate that McTominay feels at home at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium and believes Naples is where he should be playing his best football.
A Wise Decision for United: Looking Elsewhere
While the idea of bringing McTominay back to Old Trafford might have appealed to INEOS and the club’s management, his recent comments suggest that a move away from Napoli is unlikely. Given his satisfaction and success in Italy, it would be wise for United to look elsewhere for midfield reinforcements. McTominay’s latest admissions have saved the club from an unnecessary and prolonged transfer saga, allowing them to focus on other targets who may be more readily available and equally capable of bolstering their midfield. For now, it seems that Manchester United will have to watch from the sidelines as their former academy star continues to shine in Naples.
