Napoli manager Antonio Conte has expressed surprise at Manchester United’s decision to part ways with Scott McTominay and Rasmus Hojlund, both of whom are now thriving in Italy.
Ahead of Napoli’s Champions League opener against Manchester City, Conte suggested United failed to maximize McTominay’s abilities before selling him for £25.7m last year. The 28-year-old midfielder has since become a key figure for the Serie A champions, winning the league’s Player of the Year award in his debut season.
“I knew him when he played for Manchester United because I coached in England. I saw great potential in this player and wondered why he was not dominant in England,” Conte told reporters.
“Honestly, in the first moment I didn’t believe United would sell him. It happened, and now he is enjoying it.”
Conte also praised Hojlund, who joined Napoli on loan in the summer.
“He has great potential, and now it’s up to me to improve him and help him grow into a top striker. Hojlund didn’t have much luck or a great experience in the last couple of years at Man United.”
McTominay will return to Manchester on Thursday as Napoli aim to upset reigning champions Manchester City.
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