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Nicky Butt Criticizes Man United’s McTominay Sale as Napoli Star Returns to Manchester

The former academy coach points to the Scot’s Player of the Year season in Italy to argue the club misread his value.

Overview

  • Manchester United sold Scott McTominay to Napoli in August 2024 for a reported £25–25.7m and replaced him with Manuel Ugarte, who is described in reporting as yet to meet expectations.
  • McTominay delivered a breakout 2024–25 at Napoli with 13 goals and six assists in 39 games, winning Serie A, the league’s MVP award and a place on the 2025 Ballon d’Or shortlist.
  • Nicky Butt told Sky Sports it was wrong to let the long‑serving academy graduate go, praising his drive and saying he would run through brick walls for the club.
  • The Scot has become a cult figure in Naples, with murals and “god‑like” admiration reflecting his rapid rise.
  • Attention turns to England this week with McTominay set to visit Manchester for Napoli’s Champions League tie against Manchester City.