“Selling him was a monumental error. It’s even worse than keeping Zirkzee around.

Over the past few years, Manchester United’s transfer strategy has faced significant scrutiny, and for good reason, given the underwhelming impact of several high-profile signings.

While fans have frequently criticized the club’s hierarchy for a perceived lack of investment, it’s evident that Erik ten Hag was given substantial financial backing. During his 27-month tenure at Old Trafford, the Dutch manager spent a staggering £600m, including £156m on Brazilian duo Casemiro and Antony. However, both players have struggled to make their mark, with the pair starting just nine Premier League matches combined in the 2024/25 season.

This pattern of lavish spending on underperforming players has contributed to United’s current cost-cutting measures, limiting Ruben Amorim’s ability to strengthen the squad further. However, optimism surrounded the 2024 summer transfer window due to the arrival of Dan Ashworth as Sporting Director, following his successful stint at Newcastle United.

Dan Ashworth’s Impact on Manchester United’s Summer Transfers

Ashworth’s appointment was expected to bring a fresh approach to United’s transfer dealings, but just a few months into the 2024/25 season, many of his signings have failed to deliver value for money.

One such example is Manuel Ugarte, who arrived for £50m from PSG. Tasked with adding quality and grit to the midfield, Ugarte has struggled to secure a starting spot, making just five Premier League starts under Amorim despite their previous working relationship at Sporting CP.

Similarly, the £36.5m signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna has proven disappointing. Despite netting 12 goals in Serie A during the 2023/24 campaign, Zirkzee has only scored three times in all competitions for United, appearing out of his depth, as highlighted in the Europa League clash against Viktoria Plzen.

While Ashworth oversaw several high-profile arrivals, his decision to offload certain players has also drawn criticism—none more so than his choice to sell Scott McTominay, which many now consider a grave error.

Ashworth’s Biggest Mistake: Selling Scott McTominay

Scott McTominay, a lifelong United player, was sold to Napoli for £25m over the summer, ending his 22-year association with the club. The Scottish international had been a versatile presence for United, playing as a midfielder, center-back, and even as a striker across 255 appearances.

Seeking more regular game time, McTominay has flourished in Serie A, starting 12 league matches for Napoli and scoring three goals while continuing his strong goalscoring record despite playing in a deep-lying midfield role.

Dubbed a “monster” by some, McTominay has also posted impressive underlying statistics, including an average of 2.1 shots per 90 minutes, a pass accuracy of 86%, and 5.2 duels won per game. His performances for Napoli suggest he could have addressed Manchester United’s current issues in midfield and attacking output.

Scott McTominay’s Napoli Stats (2024/25)

• Games Played: 12
• Goals Scored: 3
• Assists: 2
• Shots Taken (per 90): 2.1
• Pass Accuracy: 86%
• Dribbles Completed: 1.2
• Duels Won: 5.2
• Tackle Success Rate: 63%

Stats via FotMob

McTominay’s strong form, combined with Ashworth’s recent departure, highlights ongoing issues within Manchester United’s management structure. The decision to sell a player who has excelled on the European stage is a bitter pill for fans to swallow and leaves many questioning what could have been if McTominay had remained at Old Trafford.

As the club works to rebuild its identity and return to its former glory, decisions like these underline the significant challenges ahead.