Scott McTominay highlights Why Napoli are at a different level than Manchester United

Add as a preferred source on Google

Scott McTominay, now at Napoli after his long stint with Manchester United, has opened up about his transition to life in Serie A and the differences he's observed between his time in England and Italy.

After spending nearly 20 years at Old Trafford, the Scottish international made a £25 million summer switch to Napoli following reduced playing time under Erik ten Hag.

Under previous managers like Jose Mourinho and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, McTominay was a regular starter, but Ten Hag's system limited his role. Napoli's new manager, Antonio Conte, saw an opportunity to bring the 27-year-old into his squad, and McTominay has thrived since his arrival. He's been integral in Napoli's unbeaten start to the season, featuring prominently in three wins and a draw against Juventus. His impact has been immediate, with an assist in a win over Monza and a goal in a 5-0 Coppa Italia rout against Palermo.

Speaking with Radio CRC, McTominay reflected on the differences between playing in the Premier League and Serie A. He highlighted the tactical complexity of Italian football, noting that "there's much more tactical work that you need to understand" compared to the Premier League, where the physical aspect often took precedence. "In Serie A, it's about tactical nuances and understanding your role," McTominay said. He also praised Conte's tactical approach, which allows for fluidity and adaptability on the field, helping him to thrive in multiple roles.

Conte's trust in McTominay has helped him regain confidence, as the midfielder now regularly features in Napoli's starting lineup-a far cry from his limited appearances at Manchester United in the final months. McTominay also emphasized how comfortable he feels under Conte's system, which has unlocked his full potential in the early part of Napoli's campaign. As the Serie A season progresses, McTominay's resurgence under Conte suggests that he has successfully adapted to the demands of Italian football.