How Scott McTominay Became a Napoli Icon After Leaving Manchester United

A New Hero Is Born in Naples

Scott McTominay became a hero in Naples after a season of incredible performances, but his emotional celebration after winning Serie A cemented his legendary status at the club.

Title-Winning Moments That Defined His Season

He scored an acrobatic volley—his 12th goal—against Cagliari, giving Napoli the lead before Romelu Lukaku, his former Manchester United teammate, secured the game with a second goal.

That home victory sealed Napoli’s fourth Serie A title, edging out Champions League finalists Inter Milan in a dramatic and unforgettable campaign.

As the final whistle blew, the 28-year-old midfielder was crowned Serie A’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2024-25 season.

An Emotional Reaction from the Midfield General

“I’m lost for words,” McTominay said post-match. “The sacrifice every single player made is incredible and the fans have supported us from day one.”

Leaving Manchester United, where he spent over two decades, was a bold step—but now looks like a masterstroke in his footballing career.

A City That Treats Stars Like Royalty

Naples embraced him completely—fans created tattoos, cakes, flags, and even a shrine, while some even wore kilts in tribute to their Scottish star.

In a city that deifies football icons like Diego Maradona, McTominay’s passion, grit, and goalscoring made him worthy of that same adoration.

His Name Echoes Far Beyond Naples

A restaurant in Edinburgh displayed a flag reading: “Napoli. McTominay. Pizza. In that order,” capturing the midfielder’s impact both locally and internationally.

United’s Loss Is Napoli’s Gain

Last summer, with Manchester United needing funds to meet financial regulations, they sold McTominay for £25.7 million—a fee now considered a bargain.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, McTominay’s former boss at United, expressed disbelief at the transfer, saying, “how you can sell Scott is beyond me.”

Different Paths, Different Fortunes

While United endured one of their worst seasons since the 1970s, McTominay flourished in Italy, helping his side make history once again.

TNT Sports pundit Don Hutchison praised McTominay’s transformation, crediting United’s development and Napoli’s faith in allowing him to reach a new level.

A Transfer Almost Never Happened

The deal almost didn’t happen, with Napoli initially chasing Frosinone midfielder Marco Brescianini, who was undergoing a medical before plans suddenly changed.

Instead, Brescianini joined Atalanta and McTominay signed for Napoli—a decisive moment that redefined both the club’s season and his professional trajectory.

McTominay’s Tactical Evolution Under Conte

Goals, Growth, and Glory in Italy

McTominay thrived under Antonio Conte, scoring 12 goals in 34 league games and another in the Coppa Italia—a stunning output for a midfielder.

He was Serie A Player of the Month in April, shortlisted again in May, and ultimately won the league’s MVP award for 2024-25.

More Than a Defensive Midfielder

McTominay became the league’s top-scoring midfielder, a stark contrast to his 19 goals across 178 Premier League appearances at Manchester United.

Conte utilized McTominay in an attacking midfield role, a major shift from the defensive position he often occupied at United and occasionally with Scotland.

The Raider, Not the Builder

Naples journalist Vincenzo Credendino explained Conte’s tactical adaptation, saying McTominay flourished as a “raider” rather than a “builder” in this revamped system.

With Lukaku as a central striker creating space, McTominay was unleashed in forward positions, making him a constant threat in the final third.

Stats That Back the Stardom

Statistically, McTominay ranks high among midfielders in opposition box touches and duels won—highlighting his influence on both ends of the pitch.

He also took on a leadership role, calming teammate Amir Rrahmani during a heated exchange in the first half of the title-clinching match.

Echoes of Juventus Legends

Credendino likened McTominay to Conte-era midfielders like Claudio Marchisio and Arturo Vidal, who also excelled under the coach’s aggressive and disciplined approach.

It’s no coincidence—McTominay and Conte are a perfect tactical match, and together they’ve written a new chapter in Napoli’s storied football history.

McTominay: From Man Utd Exit to Napoli Legend