Italian media make their feelings clear on Scott McTominay as pundit makes damning Man Utd claim
The Italian media's feeling on Scott McTominay could not be any clearer after his incredible impact at Napoli.
McTominay signed for the Naples outfit in the summer in a £25 million deal from Manchester United and has been a revelation for Antonio Conte's side, scoring six goals and assisting a further four in 22 appearances to help them climb to the top of Serie A.
His exit from Old Trafford came as a solution to difficulties complying with the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules, because of his status as a homegrown player who represents pure profit on the balance sheet.
Struggling United have lacked a goal threat all season and are currently 15th in the Premier League, but McTominay has been a huge hit at Napoli.
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Early on, sections of the media in Italy started referring to him as Conte's 'Jolly' - meaning in the pack of cards he is effectively the variable with the ability to upgrade a losing hand into a winning one.
Another nickname soon arrived as he was then labelled 'McTotally’ - a nod to his ability to be "totally present and committed to running everywhere".
But a third moniker could be the best yet, with Gazzetta dello Sport calling McTominay "the warrior soul of Napoli" in a compliment that would be reserved for someone like Napoli icon Diego Maradona.
McTominay and his girlfriend Cam Reading fell in love with with everything about their new environment right from the off and the Scotland international kissed his badge after his first goal for the club.
Conte has branded him a "complete" and "versatile" player and his strong ability in both boxes has been pivotal for Napoli, giving them different options for setting up.
Former Napoli star Paolo Di Canio has said United's directors should be "arrested" for allowing McTominay to leave and thrive elsewhere.
Previous manager Erik ten Hag was adamant he would have preferred to have kept McTominay but his departure was allowed by the top brass and United's loss has been Napoli's gain.
Napoli are currently two points clear of Inter Milan at the top and targeting a second Scudetto triumph in three years.
Topics: Napoli, Italy, Scott Mctominay, Man Utd
Josh Lawless