Scotland manager Steve Clarke has criticised Manchester United supporters, claiming their negativity contributed to Scott McTominay’s departure from the club in 2024. McTominay moved to Napoli for a fee of €30.5 million and has since become a key player for the Italian side, even earning a nomination in the 2025 Ballon d’Or awards, finishing 18th.
Clarke suggested that a lack of support from a segment of the United fanbase played a role in McTominay seeking a move. He pointed out that the midfielder was consistently selected by successive managers at Old Trafford, despite not always being a guaranteed starter, and believes that with more backing from supporters, McTominay could still be a vital player for United. “Maybe if he had the same backing and support from the social media keyboard warriors at United he would still be there and be a key player for them,” Clarke told Telegraph Sport.
McTominay’s form since joining Napoli has been exceptional, culminating in a Serie A title win in his first season. This success has allowed him to flourish under manager Antonio Conte, who has shown a level of trust that Clarke feels was absent during his time at Manchester United. Clarke highlighted the importance of a manager’s faith in a player’s development, noting that Conte has made McTominay a central figure in the Napoli team, mirroring his importance for the Scotland national side.
Clarke also revealed how his tactical approach with Scotland helped lay the foundation for McTominay’s recent success. Initially deployed as a centre-back for his country, Clarke gradually shifted McTominay into a more advanced central midfield role, allowing him to utilise his goal-scoring ability. This tactical shift proved pivotal, with McTominay’s spectacular overhead kick against Denmark being a crucial moment in Scotland’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup – their first appearance in the tournament since 1998. McTominay has earned 71 international caps and scored 15 goals for Scotland, establishing himself as a key player for his nation.
