Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes was keen to show off a gift he recently received from Napoli’s new star and former team-mate Scott McTominay.
The Scotland international left Old Trafford during the summer. It was an unpopular decision among many supporters and Erik ten Hag stressed that he wanted McTominay to stay.
It can be a special occasion for players to meet former team-mates on international duty. In the likes of the Europa League, it could be one of the few benefits our players get from playing in the pointless international fixtures.
It doesn’t surprise us that McTominay has been quick to endear himself to the Napoli faithful having made an instant impact in Italy.
The 27-year-old scored his first goal for the Serie A outfit on his first appearance, against Palermo, and celebrated at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium by kissing the Napoli badge.
In a hilarious clip uploaded by local outlet CalcioNapoli24, some members of the Napoli support had a go at pronouncing McTominay’s name and they struggled.
The admiration for McTominay is clear to see.
McTominay has since scored his second goal for Napoli in a 4-1 win over Como, who Raphael Varane joined in the summer before prematurely announcing his retirement following another injury setback.
At least McTominay has enjoyed better fortunes since his move to Italy and we hope it continues, with several former Napoli stars such as Gianfranco Zola and Paolo Di Canio speaking out about United’s decision to sell the midfielder.
It baffles the Italian duo at a time there’s not a lot going right for United on the pitch. Some will say the criticism is warranted, but McTominay never cemented a starting berth in Ten Hag’s plans, despite the manager clearly in favour of him staying at the club.
There’s no denying that McTominay was an incredible servant to United. We must remember important goals he scored last season and his rise to prominence under the Dutchman.
Bruno Fernandes buzzing with Scott McTominay shirt
Photo via brunofernandes8 on Instagram
Steve Clarke’s Scotland side hung on for their first Nations League point against a Cristiano Ronaldo-inspired Portugal during the international break.
The Scots remain winless in their last nine competitive matches.
McTominay came close to finding the back of the net against the Portuguese, who ultimately failed to break down Scotland’s defence on the night.
Bruno Fernandes started for Portugal but was unable to add to his impressive international record.
The United skipper was keen to show off a gift he got from McTominay, which we can only assume he received before or after the international clash which took place on Wednesday night.
Fernandes took to Instagram with the following caption: “@scottmctominay the name that’s conquered the heart of Napoli.”
It’s good to see McTominay has still has strong support from the United dressing room as well as the fanbase.