Napoli's Scott McTominay discovers Ballon d'Or fate as ex-Man Utd man eclipses Liverpool duo and Man City hero
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Scott McTominay, the former Manchester United midfielder, has been nominated for the 2025 Ballon d'Or following an outstanding debut season with Napoli. His nomination has come as a surprise to many, considering his modest profile during his time at Manchester United.
After transferring from Manchester United to Napoli last season, McTominay rapidly became a key player, contributing significantly to Napoli’s success, including their Serie A title win. His performance in the Italian league demonstrated his value, justifying his place on football's most prestigious individual award shortlist.
At United, McTominay was often seen as a squad player, and his departure was considered necessary due to a system mismatch and the tactical preferences of then-manager Erik ten Hag, who preferred other options in midfield. However, this move proved pivotal for McTominay, allowing him more freedom in a team where he could fully leverage his abilities.
Analysts and fans alike have debated whether his exit was beneficial, with some arguing Manchester United lost a valuable asset worth around £60 million just a year prior. His success at Napoli underlines the complexity of football transfers and team dynamics, showing how a change of environment can revitalize a player's career.
McTominay’s nomination eclipses notable players from Liverpool and Manchester City, reflecting the significant impact he has made. His journey highlights the unpredictable nature of football careers and the potential for players to excel when given the right opportunities.
PP