McTominay ‘gave everything’ under Mourinho and found Man Utd ‘feelings’ at Napoli

epaselect epa11713682 Napoli’s Scott McTominay (C) celebrates with teammates after scoring the 1-0 lead during the Italian Serie A soccer match between Inter and Napoli at Giuseppe Meazza stadium in Milan, Italy, 10 November 2024. EPA-EFE/NICOLA MARFISI

Napoli star Scott McTominay says he ‘gave everything’ under José Mourinho at Manchester United and admits he found the ‘same feelings’ he had at Old Trafford at Napoli, while Rafael Leao is the best player in Serie A.

Scotland international McTominay released a lengthy interview with Gazzetta dello Sport, talking about his first season at Napoli and his life on and off the pitch.

The ex-Manchester United midfielder was asked why Mourinho once said he was ‘special.’

“I don’t know. I think I always gave everything under Mou,” the Napoli star replied.

“He could see in my eyes that playing football was my dream. Working with him was amazing, I have great respect for him.”

McTominay ‘gave everything’ under Mourinho and found Man Utd ‘feelings’ at Napoli

McTominay played 31 games under Mourinho at Manchester United, but failed to score or assist with the Portuguese coach in charge.

“I grew up at Manchester United and had a strong education there, even in sporting terms,” he continued.

“I’ve found the same feelings again at Napoli—that desire to respect the club’s work and history.”

McTominay joined Napoli last summer and has already scored six goals in league games, but who is the best player in the league?

“In Serie A, I’d say Leao. He’s a great player, very dynamic and fast,” McTominay replied.

“He can change a game with a single move. Serie A really is a great league. There are many top players like Lautaro Martinez, the Thuram brothers, and Reijnders. The level is very high. I’ve been impressed. In my career, I’ve also played against Messi and Ronaldo, who are phenomenal.”

McTominay has scored seven goals and provided four assists in 32 appearances across all competitions this season.

He completed a €30.5m transfer from Manchester United last summer, signing a contract until June 2028.