Andy Robertson has criticized Manchester United for failing to show midfielder Scott McTominay the “respect” he rightfully deserves prior to his transfer to Napoli last summer.
McTominay, who is a product of United’s academy, made a total of 255 appearances for the Red Devils.
However, after seven years of struggling to secure a permanent starting position, he was sold to Napoli for a fee of £25 million ($33 million) last summer.Since his arrival in Naples, McTominay has revitalized his career.
He scored 12 goals and provided an additional six assists on his way to winning the Serie A title, and he even received the league’s Most Valuable Player award for establishing himself as an essential member of Antonio Conte’s team.
United has faced significant criticism for parting ways with McTominay, not only due to his skill but also because of his inherent passion and dedication to the club.
Robertson expressed his discontent with the Red Devils after reuniting with his Scotland teammate for international duty.
“I believe he went over there [to Napoli] with something to prove,” said Liverpool left-back Robertson regarding McTominay.
“I think he aimed to demonstrate that Man Utd was mistaken and to show people in the Premier League that they were wrong.”
He has successfully gone over there and accomplished that. This is a testament to him, reflecting his attitude and determination to become the best version of himself. Now, he reigns as a king over there.
“At Man Utd, he likely struggled to maintain a consistent run of games; he was frequently in and out of the lineup.
He probably did not receive the respect he rightfully deserves.
However, upon moving there, he delivered an outstanding season, and credit to him for concluding it with the league title.
“Even prior to his time at Napoli, his standards for Scotland were exceptional.
He continues to improve, elevating his performance to an entirely new level.
“McTominay was also accompanied in Naples by his Scotland teammate Billy Gilmour, who contributed to the Serie A success following his transfer from Brighton & Hove Albion.
“It’s simply confidence, confidence in their own abilities,” stated Scotland manager Steve Clarke when asked to elaborate on the duo’s success. “The explanation is that straightforward.
Both possess significant confidence in their abilities and have demonstrated their talent in a different league. This does not surprise me.”