‘It’s the rules’: Erik ten Hag explains why Scott McTominay was sold

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed why Scott McTominay was allowed to leave Old Trafford for a new adventure in Napoli.

McTominay completed a deadline day move away from Manchester United in a £25million move. The midfielder’s exit is good news for the club in terms of Profit and Sustainability rules, with the academy graduate being classed as pure profit on their balance sheet.

Though United are set to bring in a new player before the transfer deadline, Erik ten Hag couldn’t hide his disappointment at McTominay’s sale to Napoli.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference ahead of the Red Devils’ clash with rivals Liverpool on Sunday and before the official announcement, he said: “It is a little bit mixed.

“I am very happy for him, but it is mixed because I wouldn’t prefer to lose him.

“He is Manchester United in everything, he was so important for Manchester United.

“He was here for over 22 years but unfortunately it is the rules.

“Homegrown players bring more value and that is not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it is a good deal.

“Scott is happy with it, and Napoli and us.”

Confirming his exit on Friday night, United said: “McTominay will be missed by everyone at the club and leaves with our best wishes as he embarks on a new chapter of his career in Italy.

“Good luck, Scott, arrivederci and thank you for the fabulous memories.”

McTominay rose up through United’s academy, he made 255 appearances in all competitions, scoring 29 goals, with ten of his strikes coming last season. He will begin a new adventure under Antonio Conte at Napoli.