Manchester United centre-back Harry Maguire has opened up about what he believes went wrong for former teammate Scott McTominay during his time at Old Trafford. The Scottish midfielder, who came through United’s academy system, was a mainstay in the first team before being sold in the summer of 2024.

McTominay made his senior debut under Jose Mourinho and later became a prominent figure under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer. He also featured regularly under Erik ten Hag until the manager opted to part ways with him in pursuit of a new defensive midfielder.

The Red Devils used McTominay’s transfer to fund the acquisition of Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). However, the Uruguayan has struggled to meet expectations at Old Trafford and continues to be linked with a move away this summer.

Meanwhile, McTominay joined Napoli, and his career took a remarkable turn from there.

The move proved to be transformative for the 29-year-old. In his debut campaign at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, McTominay played a crucial role in guiding Napoli to the Serie A title.

His stellar performances earned him the Serie A Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, a Ballon d’Or nomination, and immense adoration from Napoli supporters. Fans in Naples have even created a small shrine in his honour at Vico San Nicola al Nilo.

During the last season, McTominay recorded 14 goals and four assists in 44 appearances, helping the Partenopei secure the Supercoppa Italiana and finish second in Serie A.

Since leaving Manchester, McTominay has completely revitalised his career. Maguire has now shared his perspective on why the midfielder never managed to reach similar heights with the Red Devils.

Speaking on the Rest is Football podcast following Scotland’s 1-0 defeat to Morocco, Maguire praised McTominay’s personality and leadership, saying, “I really got on well with Scott. He’s a great person to have around the dressing room.”

He added, “He’s a big character, a great leader. When you train with Scotty, everyone knows the quality he brings. In five-a-side, he’s always among the top scorers.”

Maguire suggested that United were unable to maximise McTominay’s potential because he was often deployed in the wrong role. “At Manchester United, he usually played deeper,” Maguire explained. “To play as a number 10 at United, you have to be the star man, and I think Scotty is far more effective further forward than as a number six, which is where he played most of the time at United.”

He continued, “You want him near the box; he’s incredibly clinical. If Scotland were to score, it was likely going to be through Scott. His runs, timing, and finishing ability are top class. He’s a fantastic player.”

The defender also revealed that he had confidence in McTominay’s ability to thrive in Italy. “When he moved to Napoli, I knew he’d succeed, and the entire squad felt the same. But at United, it was difficult because Bruno was already occupying the number 10 spot, and it’s tough to take him out of the lineup,” Maguire said.

Club legend Wayne Rooney recently admitted that he would love to see McTominay return to Old Trafford, though such a move appears improbable. United are currently searching for midfield reinforcements but are reportedly targeting a different player profile.