Scott McTominay born and bred around the red colors of Manchester, believes that he made the right decision to leave Manchester United in the summer for Napoli. A club where he spent 22 years of his life, often believing that he would one day retire in the famous red jersey, now one of the integral parts of Antonio Conte’s Gli Azzuri that’s surging for the Scudetto.
The 27-year-old was a fan favorite at Old Trafford, although he was part of a United team suffering immensely. It was one of the lowest points in the club's history, both on and off the pitch. However, he still consistently displayed great character, determination, grit, and, most importantly, a winning mentality, which the club has been known for throughout its rich history.
Inevitably, this was instilled in McTominay from the time he was a part of the Red Devils' youth system at the age of five. He made 255 senior appearances for Manchester United, part of the starting XI 171 times. His minutes under Erik ten Hag, who was sacked last month, were becoming increasingly limited. With just one year left on his contract, a thought began to develop in his mind about whether to continue getting reduced game time or seek out a new adventure, considering his age.
"Go for it" - Scott McTominay on leaving Manchester United
McTominay opened up on his Manchester United departure while on international duty with Scotland. He said (via Manchester Evening News):
"It was a huge decision for me and my family and my friends. Times like that in your life you just have to say; 'Do I want to do it'? Absolutely, and go for it."
The Scotland international proved that his decision was absolutely correct, and now he receives the same reception from Napoli supporters as he often received from United's faithful. He has three goals already at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium; his third goal was an equalizer in an important 1-1 draw against Inter Milan. His goal meant Conte's side remained top of Serie A.
"There's no looking back. I've never had any regrets in my life or my career and I'll continue that way to this day. I want my career to be successful, and I'm going to go out of my way to try and push myself to be the best football player and the best person that I can possibly be, as well."
🔴🏴 Erik ten Hag on Scott McTominay: “If you score 10 goals in a season and perform very well for Scotland there will be interest”.
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 21, 2024
“We want to actually keep him because he's a very important player for us”.
“We've seen what he can contribute last season”, says via @RichFay. pic.twitter.com/NM3yIYU0Iw
Did Manchester United make a blunder by letting go of their once-youth graduate? With Ten Hag sacked, he might have been handed a more prominent role under new head coach Ruben Amorim, who takes charge after the international break away to Ipswich Town (November 24), that chapter of the book will remain unwritten.