Scott McTominay Reflects on Misuse at Manchester United and Thriving at Napoli

A Career Revitalized in Serie A

Scott McTominay has admitted that his best football may never have been seen at Manchester United, citing how his role in the team was misinterpreted by the club’s coaching staff. Since making the switch to Napoli last summer, the Scottish midfielder has been a revelation, thriving in a more advanced position that plays to his attacking instincts.

After years of being deployed as a defensive midfielder or even a makeshift centre-back, McTominay has flourished in Italy, proving himself as an attacking threat rather than a deep-lying enforcer. His form has been instrumental in Napoli’s push for a top-four finish in Serie A, as he continues to silence critics who once doubted his ability.

From Defensive Duties to Goal Contributions

The numbers tell the story of McTominay’s transformation. At United, he was primarily tasked with breaking up opposition attacks and shielding the defense. However, in 26 Serie A matches for Napoli, he has contributed to 10 goals (six goals and four assists)—already surpassing his eight goal involvements from last season in the Premier League.

His run of 25 consecutive starts for Napoli was only broken due to illness, highlighting how integral he has become under Francesco Calzona. With eight matches left in the season, McTominay has the potential to further elevate his stats and reinforce his importance in the squad.

McTominay on His Struggles at United

Looking back on his time at Manchester United, McTominay acknowledged the difficulty of finding his true role. Speaking to The Athletic, he reflected on how his natural instincts were somewhat stifled at Old Trafford.

“When I got into the first team, I was quite mis-profiled in where I was playing. My strengths have always been getting into the box, scoring goals, being a problem in there. But I was being used as a No. 6, or even as a centre-back, and that has never really been my game.”

Despite these frustrations, he never blamed United’s coaches for their decisions. Instead, he accepted the reality of being a young player in a squad filled with established midfield stars.

“When you’re playing for Manchester United and you’re 20, you can’t knock on the manager’s door and say that you expect to be playing at No. 8 ahead of Paul Pogba. It’s not realistic. You have to know your place and do what you’re asked to do.”

His adaptation to deeper roles was a necessity rather than a preference, and while he managed to make valuable contributions at United, it’s clear that he has now found the perfect fit in Napoli’s system.

A Long Journey from Academy Prospect to Serie A Star

McTominay’s connection with Manchester United goes back nearly two decades, having joined the club’s academy at the age of five. Initially a midfielder, he later played as a striker due to a sudden growth spurt in his teenage years. However, by the time José Mourinho handed him a senior debut in 2017, he had been pushed into a more defensive role.

His recent success in Italy raises the question—could Manchester United have made better use of his attacking qualities? While he remains focused on the future with Napoli, his story serves as a reminder of how player development can be shaped by tactical decisions rather than natural ability.

Do you think McTominay was underutilized at Manchester United, or is he simply benefiting from a different style of play at Napoli?