'He was so important': Erik ten Hag not happy with United's decision to sell 10-goal star

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has expressed his displeasure over the departure of midfielder Scott McTominay to Napoli on a permanent deal.

The 27-year-old was a key player under the Dutch tactician last term. He was particularly brilliant off the bench and ended up scoring 10 goals in all competitions.

McTominay helped United to pick up 12 extra points in the league. Without his goal involvements, the club could have finished in the bottom half of the table.

Speaking in today’s press conference, Ten Hag said that he is very happy for the midfielder, but he would have preferred to keep him in the United squad this term.

The manager added that he was ‘so important’ for the club, but they had to sell him as academy players provide pure profit to stay within the PSR spending limits.

He told reporters: “I am a little mixed. I am very happy for him but I would prefer not to lose him because he was so important for our team.

“He was at Manchester United for over 22 years. But unfortunately, it’s the rules.

“You have to discuss the rules to do sells and obviously homegrown players, academy players, bring more value.

“It’s not the right thing to do but for everyone, for all parts, it’s a good deal. For Scott, he is happy with it. Of course, for Napoli, a very good player but also for us.”

McTominay’s departure is expected to coincide with the arrival of midfielder Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain. He has already undergone his medical tests.

The midfielder is completing his final formalities with the Red Devils at the current point of time and he is expected to be announced as the latest summer acquisition.

Ugarte could be unveiled to the fans before Sunday’s Premier League derby against Liverpool, but he won’t be in the squad. United have missed the midday deadline to register him for the game.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com