Erik ten Hag proved right as £27m star registers 3 G/A in 3 games, United made huge mistake - opinion
Manchester United have had a tough start to the campaign and they are currently languishing 13th in the Premier League with seven points on the board.
The Red Devils have also struggled in the Europa League and have picked up just two points from their opening two games against FC Twente and Porto.
The club have lacked the cutting edge in the final third and players have been guilty of missing clear-cut chances with plenty of poor finishing in the box.
Scott McTominay was often a saviour for United last term. The Scotland international helped them secure 12 extra points in the league with eight goal contributions.
When the midfielder joined Napoli this summer, manager Erik ten Hag was obviously disappointed.
He highlighted that the 27-year-old is ‘so important’ for the team, but the club had to part ways with him with the need to recoup funds to stay within the PSR limits.
He said: “I’m very happy for him and for us, but it’s mixed [feelings] because I would have preferred not to lose him. He has Manchester United in his veins.
“He was so important for our team, he was at Manchester United for over 22 years.
“But unfortunately, it’s the rules. You have to discuss the rules to do sales and obviously homegrown players, academy players, bring more value.
“It’s not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player but also for us.”
Ten Hag’s stance has been proved right with McTominay having started his Napoli career brightly.
The United graduate scored his maiden Napoli goal in the 5-0 win over Palermo in the Coppa Italia second round.
He followed it up with an assist against Monza in Serie A before netting his first goal in the division.
McTominay opened the scoring against Como last night after just 26 seconds. Napoli won by a 3-1 scoreline to move four points clear at the top of the league table.
The Scot is not the best when it comes to distributing from midfield, but he has the knack for making goal contributions which could benefit Napoli in their title pursuit.
The £27 million-rated star started from the number 10 position for the Serie A outfit last night and it could become his permanent position if he continues to impress.
In our opinion, United probably made a huge mistake selling him, considering he was very effective off the bench with his ability to contribute match-defining goals.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com