Erik ten Hag is devastated by Scott McTominay’s departure and explains why Manchester United star player was sold

Erik ten Hag could not hide his disappointment over the sale of Scott McTominay to Napoli.

The 27-year-old completed a £25million move from Manchester United on the final day of his career.

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The midfielder’s departure is good news for the club from a profit and sustainability perspective, with the youth player being considered a pure profit on the balance sheet.

Although the departure is financially beneficial for the club, Ten Hag is not so keen on it from a footballing perspective.

Speaking at his press conference ahead of the Red Devils’ match against rivals Liverpool on Sunday and before the official announcement, he said: “It’s a bit mixed.

“I’m very happy for him, but it’s a mixed feeling because I wouldn’t want to lose him.

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

“He was here for over 22 years, but unfortunately those are the rules.

“Players from our own academy provide more value and that is not the right way to do things, but for everyone, for all parties, it is a good deal.

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

United confirmed his departure on Friday evening: “McTominay will be missed by everyone at the club and we wish him all the best as he begins a new chapter in his career in Italy.

“Good luck Scott, arrivederci and thanks for the fantastic memories.”

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After progressing through United’s youth system, McTominay made 255 appearances in all competitions.

During that period he scored 29 goals, ten of which came last season.

McTominay may not be the only player to leave United on deadline day.

Jadon Sancho could join Chelsea on loan, three years after joining from Borussia Dortmund, where he spent the second half of last season.

That loan transfer could include an obligation to make the deal permanent next summer.

But while Sancho and McTominay could both leave, the Red Devils are on the verge of bringing in Manuel Ugarte.

The midfielder joins Old Trafford from Paris Saint-Germain for a fee of up to £50million.

However, he was not registered in time for a match against the Reds.

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