Man Utd Star Fires Back at Critics Over Scott McTominay Sale Decision
Patrick Dorgu has dismissed claims that Manchester United are struggling without Scott McTominay, whose recent brilliance helped Scotland secure their place in the 2026 World Cup at the cost of Dorgu's Denmark.
McTominay's spectacular overhead kick in the decisive qualifier between the two countries in Glasgow this week sparked Scotland's eventual 4–2 victory and may earn the midfielder consideration for a 2026 Puskás Award.
Denmark must now settle for a second opportunity through the UEFA playoffs.
After departing Manchester United for Napoli in 2024, McTominay has elevated his game to unprecedented heights. He frequently faced criticism regarding the overall squad's quality issues during his final period at the club—spanning 22 years altogether.
West Ham United had shown interest in acquiring him in 2023, but their £30 million ($39.3 million) bid was turned down due to the club's demand for over £40 million and then-manager Erik ten Hag's wish to retain him. Ultimately, the Red Devils accepted considerably less—a reported £25.7 million—the subsequent year.
Napoli benefited from McTominay's transformation, as he developed into one of the world's premier midfielders during the 2024–25 campaign. His 12 goals propelled Napoli to the Serie A championship, earning him the league's player of the year award and even a 2025 Ballon d'Or nomination. His 18th-place finish was just narrowly behind Vinícius Júnior and Robert Lewandowski.
Man Utd 'Good Enough' Without McTominay
When questioned about Man Utd potentially missing McTominay following his exceptional Scotland strike, Dorgu, who never shared the pitch with him, stated the club possesses "sufficient quality players" regardless.
"It was an excellent goal but we also have sufficient quality players at United as well. I am pleased for him winning the title at Napoli," Dorgu told reporters at Hampden Park.
"We are in a very strong position at United. We will return with confidence to assist the team in securing more victories," he continued.
McTominay revealed in the final months of last season that moving to Napoli had "broadened" his perspective and enhanced his understanding, both on and off the field.
"It's broadened my perspective on a different approach to football. It's broadened my perspective on many different aspects away from the pitch as well, which I'm very thankful for," he stated in March. "Whatever club you represent or if you secure a transfer or something similar, you must remain open-minded and seek to develop."
His performances have declined this season, which some attribute to a tactical adjustment by Napoli manager Antonio Conte. The manager himself has indicated that McTominay is suffering from his own achievements: "He arrived as an underdog with something to demonstrate. The focus he attracts, even from opponents preparing to face him, has changed. Naturally, they implement tactical modifications to neutralize him."