Erik ten Hag proved right as McTominay shines with Napoli | OneFootball

Manchester United are currently languishing 13th in the Premier League with seven points after the first six games.

The Red Devils have also struggled in the Europa League, picking up just two points from their opening two games against FC Twente and Porto.

The team has lacked a cutting edge in the final third, and players have been guilty of missing clear-cut chances inside the box.

Scott McTominay was often a saviour for United last term. The Scotland international helped them secure 12 extra points in the league with eight goal contributions.

When the midfielder was sold to Napoli this summer to help United comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules, manager Erik ten Hag was obviously disappointed.

He said: “I’m very happy for him and for us, but it’s mixed [feelings] because I would have preferred not to lose him. He has Manchester United in his veins.

“He was so important for our team, he was at Manchester United for over 22 years.

“But unfortunately, it’s the rules. You have to discuss the rules to do sales, and homegrown players, academy players, bring more value.

“It’s not the right thing to do, but for everyone, for all parts, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player but also for us.”

Ten Hag’s stance has been proved right, with McTominay starting his Napoli career brightly.

The United graduate scored his maiden Napoli goal in the 5-0 win over Palermo in the Coppa Italia second round.

He followed it up with an assist against Monza in Serie A before netting his first league goal.

McTominay opened the scoring against Como last night after just 26 seconds. Napoli won 3-1 to move four points clear at the top of the league table.

The Scot is not the best at distributing from midfield, but he has the knack of making goal contributions, which could benefit Napoli in their title pursuit.

The £27 million-rated star started from the number 10 position for the Serie A outfit last night and it could become his permanent position if he continues to impress.

United probably made a huge mistake selling him, considering his ability to contribute match-defining goals after coming off the bench.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com