As he thrives at Napoli, McTominay challenges the Manchester United exit narrative
Scott McTominay’s resurgence in Italy has not only reshaped his own career, it has also reignited a familiar debate around Manchester United. As his influence at Napoli has grown, so too has the question supporters often ask: why do some players seem to flourish only after leaving Old Trafford?
Since arriving in Naples in August 2024, McTominay has taken on a noticeably different role. Under Antonio Conte, he has been given greater license to push forward, a tactical shift that has changed how he impacts games and how he is judged.
The results have been hard to ignore. McTominay has scored 19 goals in 58 appearances for Napoli, helping the club win their second Serie A title in three seasons. He was later named Player of the Season in his first year in Italy, a level of recognition that rarely came his way in England.
That contrast has fuelled comparisons with his Manchester United years. McTominay is not the only former United player to draw attention in that regard, with Rasmus Højlund, Marcus Rashford and Antony also enjoying productive periods away from the club. For many fans, it has reinforced the idea that leaving United can unlock something previously missing.
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McTominay does not see it that way.
Asked about the trend during an interview with Kate Scott on CBS Sports, he rejected the idea that United should shoulder the blame.
“It’s just too easy an excuse [to blame the club], and say, they left Man Utd and are doing well,” he said.
He pointed to his own final season at Old Trafford as evidence that progress was already there. “In my last year, I did well, I scored ten goals and won a trophy,” McTominay said. Turning to Rashford, he added: “Marcus is a top player, and he’s always been a top player… he’s one of the club legends and scored so many goals for Man United.”
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Rather than shortcomings behind the scenes, McTominay highlighted the weight of expectation that comes with playing for United. Poor form, he suggested, is amplified under the club’s constant scrutiny, often becoming part of a wider narrative that is difficult to escape. That interpretation cuts against a popular fan view, but it reflects how players experience life inside elite clubs.
He was also clear that United provide players with elite resources, from training facilities to nutrition and preparation. “Everything is there for you to succeed,” he said, stressing that opportunities must still be earned. McTominay singled out captain Bruno Fernandes as an example of someone who consistently meets those demands.
In his view, the difference after leaving United is less about environment and more about rhythm. “The myth that they go away and are better players comes down to confidence,” he said, explaining that regular football can change how players feel about themselves and their performances.
For McTominay, that confidence has arrived in Naples. But he is careful not to frame it as an escape story more a continuation, finally given room to breathe.
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Sources: CBS Sports
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