He was asking for too much so we had to let him go. But we are definitely to sign a replacement for him soon” – This is according to Sir Jim Ratcliffe as Manchester United sold a star player after he requested higher wages as a condition for signing a new contract. After all that we did for him 😳💔 Maybe it’s all for the best 😳🙏
Scott McTominay’s request for a salary increase before signing a new contract extension was a significant factor in Manchester United’s decision to transfer him this summer. Journalist Miguel Delaney, in his ‘Reading the Game’ newsletter, highlighted that the club’s decision was motivated not only by the potential revenue from the transfer but also by a need to reduce wage costs.
Manchester United announced McTominay’s exit on the final day of the summer transfer window, ending his 22-year tenure with the club. To fill his position, the club brought in Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain. Although manager Erik ten Hag wanted to keep the 27-year-old McTominay, the club could not justify meeting his salary demands. Delaney noted that Manchester United’s financial choices this summer were largely shaped by the impact of previous player contracts and the strict limitations imposed by the Profit and Sustainability Rules. These financial guidelines forced the club to make difficult decisions, including the sale of McTominay, despite his value to the squad.
Insiders at the club described McTominay as a highly valued player at Old Trafford, often regarded as one of the best “12th men” due to his consistent performance whenever needed. However, as a homegrown talent, he also represented one of the most marketable and profitable players for Manchester United. Given his wage demands, selling McTominay was seen as a necessary step to balance the club’s finances and comply with financial regulations. His departure not only generated a substantial transfer fee but also reduced salary expenses, giving the club more flexibility within its financial framework.
McTominay leaves behind a solid legacy at Manchester United, having made notable contributions on the pitch. Over his career at Old Trafford, he netted 29 goals and provided eight assists in 255 appearances across all competitions. He played a key role in the team’s success, including winning an FA Cup and a Carabao Cup, and featured in the squads that reached the finals of both the Europa League and FA Cup, where he earned runners-up medals. These achievements underscore his importance to the club throughout his tenure.
McTominay’s career now takes a new direction as he joins Napoli, where he will be managed by Antonio Conte. The move to Serie A presents him with a fresh challenge and the chance to compete for major honors in a new environment. Conte, renowned for his tactical expertise and success in building title-winning teams, has put together a formidable squad at Napoli, aiming for the Serie A crown. For McTominay, this represents an opportunity to pursue his first league title and elevate his profile in European football. His transition from Manchester United to Napoli marks the beginning of a new chapter, filled with potential as he aims to make an impact in Italian football.
In summary, while Manchester United’s decision to part ways with Scott McTominay was driven by financial considerations, including his wage demands, it also opens up new opportunities for the player. McTominay’s legacy at Old Trafford is well-established, but he now looks ahead to new ambitions with Napoli. Under Conte’s leadership, McTominay’s departure reflects the complex balance between maintaining financial stability and building a competitive team in the modern football landscape.
