Sir Alex Ferguson once hinted at Scott McTominay’s greatness at Manchester United, predicting he would become a “big player” before moving to Napoli. The midfielder was in top form, scoring a stunning opening goal in Scotland’s 4-2 win over Denmark. Scotland qualified for the World Cup by making it through their qualifying group for the first time since 1998. They earned a spot in the North American tournament with a thrilling victory over Denmark at Hampden Park.
McTominay has had a successful year, scoring the opening goal with a breathtaking overhead kick and winning the league title with Napoli. The 28-year-old will join Italy from United in 2024. The midfielder has been in United’s youth ranks since the age of five and was highly rated by his former managers. Ferguson, in particular, saw huge potential in him and believed he would achieve remarkable results at Old Trafford before leaving, a decision United may now regret.
Back in 2021, Ferguson was full of praise when asked about McTominay, who was beginning to emerge in the first team and even wore the captain’s armband in the FA Cup tie. The legendary Scottish manager, who led United to 13 Premier League titles, praised McTominay and predicted he was on course to become one of the team’s key figures, and almost already has.
“Scott McTominay is now emerging as one of Man United’s big players,” Ferguson told the Scottish FA. “When you look at Man United picking their squad for big games, McTominay’s name is in it. He’s a good character and a great trainer. I know a little bit about the kid and I think that’s the background.”
Unfortunately, McTominay left Old Trafford in August 2024 for a whopping £25.7m. Erik ten Hag, who was in charge at the time, hinted that he wanted to keep the Scottish midfielder at the club, but their hands were tied as PSR regulations prioritized homegrown talent.
Asked about McTominay’s departure, Ten Hag admitted: “I have a little mixed feelings.” “I’m very happy for him, but it’s complicated because I don’t want to lose him. He’s Manchester United in everything. He was very important for Manchester United.”
“He’s been here for over 22 years and unfortunately that’s the rule. Local players bring more value and it’s not the right thing to do, but it’s a good deal for everyone and everyone involved. Scott is happy with it and so are Napoli and us.”
Just one year later, McTominay was named Serie A MVP for his outstanding contribution to Napoli’s championship win. Now he departs for the World Cup having scored some great goals, but United will regret the day they let go of such a top-level player.
After the historic victory, Scotland captain and McTominay’s teammate Andy Robertson could not contain his excitement. He said: “I’m really happy it ended the way it did. This group of boys, this group of staff, this is the best group I’ve ever been around.”
“The manager’s speech before the game was unbelievable. He lived through the big moments we had. When we qualified for the Euros – he didn’t fully remember – we were in Wundervaal. He said, ‘Let’s make it another game.’
“We were very emotional. To be able to do that for him, the staff and the whole family will go down as one of the best nights of my life. That sums up this team. I’m never going to say die.”
“We just kept going till the end and it’s one of the craziest games. We put the country through this game and I’m sure it was worth it. We’ll go to the World Cup.”
