Andy Robertson, the Liverpool star and captain of the Scotland national team, has recently lauded Scott McTominay, referring to him as "king" and suggesting that the midfielder has proven Manchester United wrong. This praise comes after McTominay's stellar performances, particularly following a high-profile transfer to Napoli.
McTominay's journey has been one of perseverance and proving doubters wrong. While he showed promise at Manchester United, he often faced criticism and struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter. Despite his efforts and dedication, a perception lingered that he wasn't quite at the level required for a club of United's stature. This ultimately led to his departure and a new chapter in his career.
Since joining Napoli, McTominay has flourished, becoming a pivotal figure in their Serie A-winning squad. His commanding presence in midfield, coupled with his combative style and eye for goal, have made him a fan favorite and a key component of Napoli's success. He's not just playing; he's leading and dictating the tempo of games, showcasing qualities that perhaps weren't as evident during his time in Manchester.
Robertson's comments highlight a sense of vindication for McTominay. The Scotland captain emphasized that McTominay is now on "a whole new level," implying that he has exceeded expectations and demonstrated the full extent of his capabilities. This sentiment suggests that Manchester United may have underestimated McTominay's potential and perhaps didn't provide him with the environment or opportunities he needed to truly thrive.
The praise from Robertson carries significant weight, given his own standing in the football world. As a Champions League and Premier League winner with Liverpool, Robertson's assessment of McTominay's abilities is highly credible. His words reflect not just personal admiration but also a professional acknowledgment of McTominay's growth and impact on the pitch.
McTominay's success at Napoli serves as a reminder that players can often blossom in different environments. Sometimes, a change of scenery, a new tactical approach, or simply a different level of trust from a coach can unlock a player's true potential. In McTominay's case, it appears that the move to Italy has been transformative, allowing him to showcase his talents on a consistent basis and silence the doubters.
This situation also raises questions about player evaluation and development within clubs. While Manchester United has a renowned academy, it's clear that not every player fits seamlessly into their system. McTominay's story underscores the importance of clubs accurately assessing a player's potential, providing them with the right opportunities, and understanding that a change of environment can sometimes be the catalyst for unlocking their full capabilities. It also highlights the importance of resilience and self-belief for players who face setbacks early in their careers. McTominay never stopped working hard and believing in himself, and that ultimately led him to find success elsewhere.