Scott McTominay’s journey at Manchester United has taken a significant turn under the stewardship of Erik ten Hag. Once a regular fixture in the starting lineup during Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s reign, McTominay’s role has notably diminished with the arrival of ten Hag. While Solskjaer often relied on McTominay to anchor the midfield, ten Hag has viewed the Scottish international more as an impact substitute rather than a core component of his first eleven. This shift in perception and usage marks a clear change in McTominay’s status at Old Trafford, reducing his prominence within the squad.
Recently, the decision was made by Manchester United to transfer McTominay, signaling the end of an era for the midfielder at the club where he came through the ranks. This move not only reflects a strategic decision by ten Hag but also represents a significant financial and emotional transaction for Manchester United. For PSR (Presumably the club’s academy or affiliated institution), McTominay’s transfer holds substantial value. As a product of their academy, the transfer fee brings a notable financial boost, and the fact that McTominay is an academy graduate adds a layer of sentimental significance to the deal.
McTominay’s next chapter is set to unfold at Napoli, where he is expected to take on a pivotal role under the management of Antonio Conte. Known for his tactical acumen and demanding coaching style, Conte is likely to see McTominay as a key figure in his plans for the Italian side. The former Premier League star, Paulo Di Canio, has weighed in on the potential impact McTominay could have at Napoli. Di Canio, a keen observer of Serie A, believes that McTominay has the qualities needed to become a crucial player in Napoli’s best starting eleven.
In a recent match against Parma, Napoli showcased a 3-4-2-1 formation, a tactical setup that could suit McTominay’s strengths. Di Canio suggests that within this formation, McTominay could occupy one of the two central midfield roles in the four-man midfield. This position would likely see him challenge for the spot currently held by Frank Anguissa, despite Anguissa’s recent heroics, scoring the winning goal in injury time. However, Di Canio’s analysis points to inconsistencies in Anguissa’s performances, which could pave the way for McTominay’s integration into the lineup.
Di Canio shared his insights during an interview with TMW, where he expressed confidence in McTominay’s fit within Conte’s system. “If Conte continues with a two-man midfield setup, McTominay is an ideal fit due to his aggressive style of play,” Di Canio remarked. He elaborated on the potential shortcomings of Anguissa, noting that despite his recent goal, Anguissa’s performance is sometimes marred by lapses in concentration or erratic decision-making. McTominay, in contrast, offers a blend of physicality and football intelligence that could provide Napoli with the stability and drive they need in the heart of the pitch.
As McTominay embarks on this new adventure in Serie A, the move signifies more than just a transfer; it represents an opportunity for revitalization and growth. Under Conte’s guidance, McTominay could well become a central figure in Napoli’s pursuit of domestic and European success, proving that his diminished role at Manchester United was merely a prelude to greater things in Italy.