Former Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has made a startling revelation that has caused a stir in the football world, identifying the sale of midfielder Scott McTominay as a critical misstep contributing to the club’s ongoing difficulties under current head coach Ruben Amorim. Solskjaer, who now manages Turkish club Beşiktaş, did not hold back in expressing his disappointment over Manchester United’s decision to part ways with McTominay. He emphasized how significant the Scottish international was to the team during his time at Old Trafford, both in terms of his influence on the field and his leadership in the dressing room.
McTominay, a graduate of Manchester United’s prestigious youth academy, was transferred to Serie A club Napoli, where he has been thriving under the guidance of manager Antonio Conte. The midfielder has adapted seamlessly to Italian football, scoring seven goals in 28 appearances and playing a key role in Napoli’s midfield. His performances have earned him widespread praise from both fans and the Italian media, who have lauded him as “the new leader of Napoli” and even drawn bold comparisons by calling him “the next Maradona.” McTominay’s resurgence in Italy has further fueled the debate about the wisdom of United’s decision to sell him.
Solskjaer’s comments come at a time of crisis for Manchester United, who are facing numerous challenges under Ruben Amorim’s leadership. Since Amorim took over as head coach on November 1, 2024, the team has struggled to find form, managing only four wins in the Premier League and currently sitting in a disappointing 15th place on the table. Amorim’s attempts to impose his tactical philosophy, which revolves around a 3-4-3 formation that previously brought him success at Sporting Lisbon, have not been well-received by the squad and have led to inconsistent performances. The transition has been far from smooth, with the team appearing unsettled and unable to adapt effectively to the new system.
The decision to sell McTominay is now seen by many as emblematic of broader issues at Manchester United, including questionable transfer policies and a lack of strategic direction. Solskjaer’s pointed critique has intensified scrutiny on the club’s management, particularly the choices made regarding player sales and acquisitions. As the pressure mounts on Amorim to turn things around, the absence of a player like McTominay—known for his work rate, leadership qualities, and ability to perform in crucial matches—is increasingly viewed as a significant loss for United. The situation underscores the challenges facing the club as they struggle to regain stability and competitiveness in a highly demanding Premier League season.
