Scott McTominay’s former youth coach Neil Harris has admitted he is still baffled by Manchester United’s decision to sell the Scottish midfielder, insisting he was often the “best player on the pitch” even during his academy days.
McTominay left Old Trafford for Napoli in 2024 in a €30.5m transfer, and the move has revitalised his career. Under Antonio Conte, the 28-year-old played a key role in Napoli’s Serie A title triumph, scoring 13 goals and providing six assists in all competitions during his debut season in Italy.
This year he has carried that form into the new campaign, scoring once and assisting once in five Serie A appearances so far.
Neil Harris on McTominay’s qualities
Speaking to Il Mattino, relayed by Area Napoli, Harris described McTominay’s relentless drive to improve as his greatest quality.
“He ran, he dribbled, he scored. Basically, what you see on the pitch today, but in a different body. The great quality McTominay truly has is never being satisfied. Every year, every team, he knew how to add something he didn’t have the year before. Working and improving. He still does today.” — Neil Harris
Harris also suggested United made a mistake in letting him go: “It was a strange transfer move that many fans didn’t like. For large stretches of the season, he was the best player on the pitch. And you don’t win an FA Cup by chance.”
McTominay thriving away from Old Trafford
While Manchester United continue to grapple with midfield problems under Ruben Amorim, McTominay has flourished in Naples. His dynamic style, late runs into the box, and physical presence have made him a vital part of Conte’s side.
For Harris, McTominay’s resilience is what sets him apart: “Playing in Manchester brings undeniable pressure, especially when you’re a boy born and raised at the club. The expectation is greater. We saw it not only with him but also with many of his teammates.”
Scott McTominay stats 2025/26 (Napoli)
| Stat (2025/26) | McTominay |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 5 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 1 |
source: Serie A stats – 25 September 2025
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William believes McTominay’s Old Trafford exit will be remembered as one of United’s bigger recent mistakes:
“Manchester United needed stability and goals from midfield, and McTominay offered both. At Napoli, he’s shown what happens when a player is trusted and put in the right system. Selling him looks even more questionable given United’s ongoing midfield struggles.”
He added: “Conte’s system suits him perfectly, but this is also about mentality — McTominay never stopped improving. That’s what makes him invaluable.”
Key Insights
- Neil Harris says McTominay was “never satisfied” and always added new skills.
- Former United coach calls his exit “a strange transfer move.”
- McTominay scored 13 goals and 6 assists in his first Napoli season, winning Serie A.
- Has started 2025/26 with 1 goal and 1 assist in 5 games.
- United continue to struggle in midfield under Ruben Amorim.
What’s Next for McTominay and Napoli?
McTominay is expected to play a central role again as Napoli balance their Serie A defence with Champions League ambitions. If he continues to deliver goals and leadership, his €30.5m fee will look like one of the bargains of recent years.
For Manchester United, every strong McTominay performance in Italy will only intensify questions about why they let him go.
👉 Do you think Manchester United made a huge mistake letting Scott McTominay leave, or was Napoli simply the perfect fit for him?
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