Scott McTominay sends ‘amazing’ message as Man United star waves goodbye
Scott McTominay left a heartfelt tribute to one of his former Manchester United team-mates after an exit announcement at Old Trafford.
Man United have been made to rue their decision to sell McTominay last August after he spearheaded Napoli’s charge towards the Serie A title this season, with 12 goals and six assists in their Scudetto push.
McTominay’s absence from United’s midfield was made clear as Ruben Amorim‘s side limped to a lowly 15th-place Premier League finish, and missed out on any European football whatsoever for next season.
A difficult summer is on the cards after United’s failure to reach Europe, and with multiple sales expected to raise £175million in much-needed funds at Old Trafford, three exits have already been confirmed.
McTominay farewells ‘best player’ after Man United ‘pleasure’
Football Insider revealed on 24 May that Man United trio Christian Eriksen, Victor Lindelof and Jonny Evans would all be released at the end of their contracts, and that was confirmed by the club a day later.
Eriksen and Lindelof are both expected to find new clubs this summer and refused to travel to Malaysia for Man United’s post-season tour, as Evans played for the final time in a 3-1 win over Hong Kong, China.
Man United announced on 30 May that the 37-year-old’s appearance would be the last of his career overall, and McTominay paid tribute to Evans in a heartfelt post on his Instagram story (1 June).
McTominay said: “You are one of the best players, characters and professionals I have had the pleasure to play alongside.
“Very fortunate to share some amazing memories with you. An incredible career and I wish you nothing but the best with your retirement (other than when we play golf).”
Man United must replace Evans in key transfer window
Evans’ retirement puts paid to any hopes of Rangers signing the veteran centre-back this summer, but his and Lindelof’s exits will leave a significant hole to fill in Amorim’s defensive stocks at Old Trafford.
United missed out on a £38m windfall as well as a Champions League spot after their Europa League final defeat to Tottenham, and this will make it difficult for Amorim to bring in his first-choice targets.
Jarrad Branthwaite has been near the top of the Red Devils’ centre-back shortlist for some time, but Man United are now at long odds to sign the Everton defender as several years of heavy and erratic spending come back to bite.