Neville questions why Man United couldn’t unlock McTominay
Article excerpt
Gary Neville has questioned why Manchester United failed to unlock Scott McTominay's potential before the midfielder departed for Napoli in 2024. Since arriving in Serie A, McTominay has flourished, becoming a major contributor for the Italian club. The criticism reflects a broader debate about United's ability to develop and retain homegrown talent, with Neville's comments suggesting the club missed an opportunity with a player who proved his worth elsewhere.
Neville questions why Man United couldn’t unlock McTominay
Gary Neville has questioned why Manchester United were unable to get the best from Scott McTominay.
McTominay left Manchester United to sign for Napoli in 2024 and has since been a major hit in Serie A. The Scotland midfielder has scored 27 goals in 80 games for the Italians, and was named Serie A Footballer of the Year in 2024/25 for his role in the club’s title triumph.
The 29-year-old came through the ranks at Manchester United and made 255 first-team appearances for the club, though was often a target for criticism during a difficult period for the side.
Neville has questioned why the Red Devils were unable to nurture the potential of the midfielder, who has become a ‘different player’ since his Old Trafford exit.
McTominay is currently with the Scotland side at the World Cup, having had a key role in the country’s first qualification since 1998.
“He’s absolutely a different player [than at United]. He was being mocked at times, the ‘McFred’ partnership,” Neville said to ITV Football.
“He’s obviously gone over to Napoli, he’s playing in a different position, he’s more advanced, he’s got belief, confidence, he looks like he dresses differently, he looks differently… everything’s different.
“I don’t know why Manchester United unfortunately were not able to get the best out of him because he was one of their own and he was committed to that club.”
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