‘I couldn’t believe’: Chelsea legend admits he was left ‘dazzled’ by INEOS summer decision

Among Manchester United’s eight summer outgoings in 2024 was homegrown talent Scott McTominay, who departed his boyhood club for Napoli on deadline day.

Long had the midfielder been linked with a move away from Old Trafford, largely because he frequently attracted the most transfer interest of any of his teammates.

Prior to agreeing to his Naples switch, Fulham had two bids rebuffed by the Red Devils for failing to meet their valuation. Crystal Palace were also said to be waiting in the wings in case McTominay favoured staying in the Premier League. 

Yet, when the Italian giants came knocking, and reports suggested Antonio Conte was adamant about welcoming the resilient Scot to his squad, McTominay just couldn’t say no. As a result, he parted ways with United after 22 years. 

 McTominay is taking Serie A by storm

He’s since got off to a flying start, too, scoring twice and assisting once in his first five appearances. McTominay is averaging a rating of 7.05 in the Serie A on Sofascore, with his most recent showing against Como earning him a 7.5 – his highest yet.

This term, there are undoubtedly times where Erik ten Hag would’ve benefitted from having the trusty 27-year-old at his disposal, as his goal contributions last season arguably kept the manager in a job at times; his late brace off the bench to prevent a 1-0 home defeat to Brentford springs to mind.

While sporting director Dan Ashworth did confirm that it was ultimately McTominay’s decision to embark on a new venture, Chelsea legend Gianfranco Zola has admitted he was left ‘very surprised’ that the club sanctioned his exit.

He recently told Hayters TV: “I am very surprised. I couldn’t believe that Manchester United released him, to be honest. I don’t really know what’s the reason, but for Napoli, he has been a great deal.

“I think everybody loves him so far. He scores goals, he performs very well, and he left me a little bit dazzled, if I am honest. I didn’t expect that.

“Obviously, it’s a big thing for Italian football. He is doing very well.”