Football is full of “what ifs,” but in the case of Scott McTominay and Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United, the pieces genuinely seem like they would have fit
As McTominay shines in Italy and United look to solidify their identity under Amorim, this is a story of timing, transition, and perhaps, a missed opportunity.
Gary Lineker’s instincts appear spot-on. McTominay might not wear the red of Manchester United anymore, but his success in Naples is a reminder of what he could have offered—and of what Manchester United let go too soon.
Manchester United are entering a season-defining period. A thrilling Europa League run, a fiercely contested Premier League finish, and a hungry, talented squad—everything is set up for a grand finale.
Under Ruben Amorim, the club seems to be finding its rhythm at last. But success now depends on execution, resilience, and perhaps a little luck.
The next few weeks will reveal whether this team is ready to return to the elite—or if it’s still a work in progress. Either way, the future is starting to look red again.
Table of Contents
Scott McTominay: The McTominay Journey
Why Scott McTominay Would’ve Been Perfect for Ruben Amorim’s Manchester United?
When Manchester United appointed Ruben Amorim as their new manager, hopes were reignited among fans and pundits alike.1
Amorim, known for his tactical intelligence, player development, and high-pressing style of play, was expected to bring a fresh identity to a side in desperate need of direction.
While many players at United are thriving under his philosophy, one former Red Devil is now being viewed as a missed opportunity—Scott McTominay.
From Academy Graduate to Napoli Star
Scott McTominay joined Manchester United’s academy at the age of five and worked his way through the ranks to eventually make his first-team debut under José Mourinho in May 2017.
Known for his work rate, physicality, and commitment to the club, McTominay became a dependable figure during turbulent years at Old Trafford. He was never flashy, but he was often the one putting in the hard yards.
However, in August 2024, Manchester United made the decision to sell the Scottish international to Napoli for €30 million.
It was a move driven partly by financial constraints under the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR), but also reflective of a club in transition, unsure of its long-term vision.
Gary Lineker’s Praise and Amorim’s Ideal Midfielder
In a recent episode of The Rest Is Football podcast, former England international Gary Lineker expressed his admiration for McTominay’s performances at Napoli and suggested that he would have thrived under Ruben Amorim at Manchester United.2
“It just jumped into my head because Scott McTominay is exactly the player I would say would actually work in an Amorim system. He’s what they need,” Lineker remarked.
This isn’t just a casual observation. McTominay’s traits—his engine, defensive awareness, positional discipline, and ability to arrive in the box—make him an archetype of the kind of box-to-box midfielder Amorim prefers in his systems.
At Sporting CP, Amorim developed players like João Palhinha and Manuel Ugarte into European stars, and there’s no doubt McTominay would have fit that mold.
Understanding Ruben Amorim’s System
To grasp why McTominay would’ve thrived under Amorim, it’s essential to understand the manager’s tactical preferences.
Amorim often deploys a 3-4-3 or 3-4-2-1 system, which relies heavily on dynamic midfielders who can both press aggressively and contribute to transitional play.
The midfielders in Amorim’s setup must be:
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Technically sound under pressure
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Physically robust and defensively aware
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Capable of driving forward with the ball or arriving late into the box
McTominay, despite not always being celebrated for flair, ticks all those boxes. He’s also shown a knack for scoring important goals—a skill he’s been showcasing even more impressively in Serie A.
The Napoli Renaissance: A Reborn McTominay
Since his move to Napoli, McTominay has silenced critics and rejuvenated his career. With nine goals and four assists in 33 appearances, he’s one of the standout midfielders in Serie A this season.
Under Napoli’s more structured yet fluid attacking system, McTominay has found freedom—particularly as a late runner into the penalty area, a role that suits his athleticism and timing.
Italian media have praised his seamless adaptation to life in Naples. Where once he was considered a utility player at Old Trafford, McTominay is now a key contributor in a team competing at the top end of Serie A.
The Role of PSR and a Questionable Sale
The PSR (Profit and Sustainability Rules) in English football are designed to ensure clubs operate within their means. Unfortunately, they can sometimes lead to footballing decisions being driven by accounting rather than strategy.
Lineker criticized the decision to let McTominay go as a consequence of these regulations, calling it “nonsensical.” He also noted that losing a local academy product, one who embodied the values of the club, was emblematic of a deeper issue at United.
“He’s a local lad and he was brought through, which we all think is nonsensical and a ridiculous feature of this particular rule,” said Lineker.
This financial decision inadvertently deprived Amorim of a player who could have offered balance, experience, and leadership to a midfield still finding its feet.
Gary Lineker: Marcus Rashford and the Amorim Effect
Lineker also pointed to Marcus Rashford as another example of a player who has benefited from Amorim’s arrival.3
The England international, who struggled with form and confidence last season, appears revitalized.
His off-the-ball movement, pressing intensity, and decision-making have all improved—hallmarks of Amorim’s influence.
If Amorim could bring out this transformation in Rashford, what might he have done with McTominay, a player already wired with the mental toughness and tactical awareness to fit seamlessly into his structure?
A Missed Opportunity in Midfield
Manchester United’s current midfield options are still in flux. While there have been promising signs from new signings and young talents, there’s a clear void left by McTominay’s departure.
The Scot may not have always grabbed headlines, but his importance in moments of chaos—his ability to simplify play, hold structure, and make decisive contributions—was invaluable.
In Amorim’s system, McTominay could have been the glue—the kind of tireless midfielder who does the dirty work but still finds ways to influence games in the final third.
Here you go. ⬇️ https://t.co/T9CgDOOhj0
— Gary Lineker (@GaryLineker) April 18, 2025
The Bigger Picture: Manchester United’s Identity Crisis
The decision to let McTominay go speaks to a broader issue at Manchester United—an ongoing identity crisis.
For years, the club has oscillated between philosophies, managers, and transfer strategies, rarely aligning long-term footballing vision with short-term business demands.
While Ruben Amorim’s appointment signals a fresh start, it’s clear that some of the consequences of previous indecision are still being felt.
Selling McTominay might have made sense on paper, but in the context of Amorim’s style and the needs of the current squad, it’s starting to look like a significant miscalculation.
Could There Be a Return?
Though unlikely in the immediate future, one can’t help but wonder whether a return to Manchester United might be on the cards someday. McTominay, still only 28, is entering the peak of his career.
If Amorim continues to reshape United into a cohesive, competitive unit, perhaps the club will look to bring back a player who never truly failed—they just never gave him the right environment to thrive.
Also Read: Are Wayne Lineker And Gary Lineker Brothers? Their Relationship, Age Difference And Family Explored
Gary Lineker: Premier League Priorities
Eyes on Europe or Top Four?
As it stands, Manchester United remain in the hunt for a top-four finish, although their league form has been inconsistent.
The battle for Champions League qualification remains fierce, with several clubs within a handful of points. United’s next two league fixtures—against Wolverhampton Wanderers on April 20 and Bournemouth on April 27—are crucial.
Wolves have proven themselves as tricky opposition, especially when given space on the counterattack.
Bournemouth, on the other hand, have had an unpredictable season but can’t be underestimated. Six points from these two matches would massively boost United’s hopes of securing a top-four finish.
But there’s a catch: the Europa League semifinal looms large, and squad rotation will be inevitable. Amorim must balance priorities, knowing full well that winning the Europa League also guarantees a Champions League berth.
The Europa League Dream: Semifinal Challenge Awaits
Following the dramatic triumph over Lyon, Manchester United will face Spanish side Athletic Bilbao in the semifinals of the Europa League. The first leg takes place on May 1, giving United less than a week to recover from their domestic fixtures.
Bilbao are known for their physical style and well-drilled system, often frustrating opponents with a compact defense and quick counterattacks. United will need to bring their European A-game once again.
Having already overcome a high-scoring affair against Lyon, Amorim will likely emphasize defensive stability and midfield control against the Spaniards.
If United can make it to the final, it will not only be a chance to claim silverware but a moment that defines Amorim’s first season at the helm.
Gary Lineker: New Video
Gary Lineker joins Stephen Hendry and gave interview for Stephen Hendry’s YouTube channel CueTips’.
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Amorim’s Tactical Evolution: A Work in Progress
Since his arrival, Ruben Amorim has gradually introduced his tactical philosophy—one that combines structured possession with aggressive pressing. The Lyon victory showcased how far the team has come under his guidance.
Players like Bruno Fernandes and Kobbie Mainoo have thrived in more flexible roles, while the defense has slowly solidified despite early-season concerns.
Amorim has also shown tactical adaptability. Against teams that press high, he’s instructed the backline to play more directly. Against deep blocks, United have employed more width and overlapping full-backs. This evolution is still ongoing, but signs are promising.
One of Amorim’s key challenges is managing player fatigue and injuries. With multiple competitions in play, smart rotation and squad management are essential in the coming weeks.
The Key Players: Who Must Step Up?
Manchester United’s resurgence has been powered by a blend of youth and experience. As the season enters its final stretch, several key players must maintain top form.
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Bruno Fernandes: The captain remains the heartbeat of the team. His creativity and leadership will be vital, especially in tight games where a moment of brilliance can decide the outcome.
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Marcus Rashford: After a quiet spell, Rashford has started to look sharp again. His pace and goal-scoring ability can stretch defenses, particularly in high-stakes European fixtures.
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Kobbie Mainoo: The young midfielder continues to impress with his composure and intelligence. Mainoo’s presence adds balance to United’s midfield, allowing others more freedom.
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Andre Onana: Despite early-season criticism, the goalkeeper has grown in confidence and was instrumental in the Lyon clash. His shot-stopping and distribution will be tested again in the coming weeks.
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Lisandro Martínez and Raphael Varane: If fit, their partnership in central defense will be key to shutting down Bilbao and keeping things steady in the Premier League.
Gary Lineker: Managing the Squad
Rotation and Risk
With three matches in nine days—two Premier League games and the Europa League semifinal—Amorim must rotate wisely.
He’ll likely lean on the likes of Scott McTominay, Alejandro Garnacho, and Diogo Dalot to provide energy and depth.
Youngsters may also get minutes. Dan Gore and Omari Forson have impressed in training and could offer fresh legs during a congested period. Balancing experience and youth will be crucial.
Squad health will also be a major factor. United’s medical team will be working overtime to monitor player workloads and manage any niggling injuries. One major injury to a key player could shift the momentum.
Old Trafford Buzzing Again
After a season of ups and downs, United’s supporters finally have something to cheer about. The Lyon match brought a vintage European atmosphere to Old Trafford—drama, goals, and passion.
There’s a noticeable buzz among the fans now. Amorim’s style is not just effective; it’s entertaining. That matters at a club like Manchester United, where expectations go beyond just winning.
Supporters will be crucial in the final run-in, especially at home fixtures. Their backing can provide the lift needed when legs are tired, and games hang in the balance.
Can United Finish Strong?
There’s still everything to play for. A Europa League trophy and a top-four finish would mark a very successful first season for Ruben Amorim and set the stage for a bright future.
But the margins are razor-thin. A single bad result could derail hopes on either front. United must stay focused, avoid complacency, and keep building on the momentum they’ve generated.
If they can navigate these next few games with focus and precision, they could end the season not just with silverware, but with the foundation for long-term success.
Also Read: Gary Lineker Weight Loss Journey: Before And After Pics & Is He Sick?
