Scott McTominay’s request for a pay increase before committing to a new contract was a significant factor in Manchester United’s decision to sell him this summer. Journalist Miguel Delaney, in his ‘Reading the Game’ newsletter, reported that the club’s choice to transfer the Scottish international was driven by both the potential financial benefit of the sale and a need to reduce wage expenses.
Manchester United announced McTominay’s departure on the last day of the transfer window, ending a 22-year association with the club. They replaced him with Uruguayan midfielder Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain. Despite manager Erik ten Hag’s interest in keeping McTominay, the club couldn’t meet his salary demands. Delaney noted that United’s financial decisions this summer were shaped by constraints from previous player contracts and strict Profit and Sustainability Rules, leading to McTominay’s sale despite his value to the team.
Sources indicated that McTominay was highly valued at Old Trafford as a reliable player who could deliver when needed. As a homegrown talent, he was also one of the club’s most marketable assets. His salary demands and the need to balance the budget made his sale a practical choice, providing both a substantial transfer fee and freeing up salary space.
McTominay departs with a strong legacy, having scored 29 goals and provided eight assists in 255 appearances, helping secure an FA Cup and a Carabao Cup, and reaching the finals of both the Europa League and FA Cup. His contributions highlight his importance to Manchester United.
As McTominay joins Napoli under Antonio Conte, he faces a new challenge and the chance to compete for Serie A honors. Conte’s tactical prowess and Napoli’s strong squad offer McTominay an opportunity to win his first league title and enhance his European reputation. His move to Napoli marks the start of a new chapter in his career, balancing financial considerations with the quest for competitive success.
