FEDERICO MACHEDA has admitted his surprise at Manchester United letting Scott McTominay leave in the summer.
The midfielder, 27, signed for Napoli in a £25million deal in August.
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He has since earned rave reviews under Antonio Conte, with fans and pundits alike thrilled with his early impact.
The Scotland international played 255 times for United after coming through their academy.
But as they looked to recruit Manuel Ugarte from Paris Saint-Germain, McTominay was allowed to depart.
Macheda, 33, played 36 times for the Red Devils between 2007 and 2014 – earning cult status for his debut wonder goal against Aston Villa.
Speaking to Radio Kiss Kiss Napoli, the Italian confessed his shock at United letting McTominay go.
He said: “I know McTominay quite well. I was almost in the first team at Manchester United and he played for the U-16 side.
“Back then he didn’t have this physicality but you could see that he was a really good guy.
“I’m happy that he’s settling in well at Napoli and he’s doing it quickly. Changing league is not easy and the approach he had proves his will and ability to take on new challenges.
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“He’s a jack of all trades as a footballer. He’s good at making offensive runs and helping the team off the ball. He’s a real worker and I’d define him as a fantastic signing.
“Conte’s presence made a lot. When a coach like him wants you in his team it’s hard to say no. I was surprised that Manchester United decided to sell him.
“He always did well there despite their recent complicated seasons. Without any doubt, leaving and going to Napoli was the right choice.”
Napoli are top of the Serie A table, having won five of their opening seven matches.
McTominay has played five times for his new side, scoring twice and laying on an assist.
Former Premier League star Paolo Di Canio recently had strong words to say regarding the transfer.
The Italian, 56, claimed: “I would go to Manchester United to arrest all the directors – how can you give away McTominay?”
Having played twice for Scotland during the international break, McTominay is set to return to club action against Empoli this Sunday.
