Napoli boss Antonio Conte has revealed that he was surprised that the transfer of Manchester United was completed last summer, where the Italian did not expect the deal to go through
Antonio Conte has revealed that he was surprised that Napoli could sign Scott McTominay from Manchester United last summer. The Scotland International helped in inspiring a Serie A title win in his first season in the club while playing a crucial role in success.
United accepted a £ 25.4 million offer for MCTominay when they separated in August 2024 with the Academy Product, much to the large delisions of ex-Chelsea Boss Conte. Subsequently, Red Devils head coach Erik ten Hag blamed the profit and sustainability rules for the sale of the midfielder and admitted that he had mixed feelings about the deal.
But while Mctominay had trouble guaranteeing a position in the Bargon Xi of the Dutchman, he quickly proved his value to Conte. The 27-year-old provides 12 goals and six assists in 34 performances during his debut season in Italy, including six goals in the last seven games when Napoli earned the title about Inter Milan on the last day of the season.
And Conte was surprised to have McTominay completely at his disposal. Although he was told by club heads that his signature could be protected, the Italian lack of European football was problematically thought.
But the 55-year-old knew that the player was under-used by Old Trafford. Conte was more than happy to take advantage of the opportunity.
“Scott is a player I knew very well. He was born and raised in Manchester United,” Conte told Sky Sport Italia.
“I could see that he always had an impact when he played, but at the same time I noticed that he was not used as an important player at Manchester United.
“He was hardly a starter. To be honest, we had talked about it [Napoli director] Giovanni Manna. He told me it was a possible solution.
'Sometimes directors also come up with stories to keep you calm. If you ask me: 'Have you ever thought that McTominay would come? “I would say no.
“Remember that we entered a season without European trophies to play, so he had to leave Manchester United to start with us.”
Conte was left with a single frustration, the signing of McTominay happened too close to the end of the window.
“A little late, but he arrived and I was very happy because Manna was good at signing him,” said Conte. “We had discussed McTominay, but I didn't think he would really come to us.”