Scott McTominay and Antony have flourished away from Manchester United after underwhelming spells at Old Trafford, with both players reviving their careers abroad. McTominay, now a star at Napoli, ended the season as Serie A’s Most Valuable Player and helped his team lift the league title. The midfielder transitioned into a more attacking role, scoring 12 goals and delivering six assists across 34 league matches.
Meanwhile, Antony enjoyed a strong resurgence during his loan at Real Betis. He tallied 14 goal involvements in 26 appearances, a noticeable improvement over his previous record at United, where he managed just 17 in 96 games. Betis secured Europa League qualification and reached the Conference League final, with Antony playing a pivotal role.
United’s own campaign, however, was a disaster. They finished 15th in the Premier League and went trophyless, intensifying criticism around the club’s environment and the weight of expectations placed on players. Former defender Rio Ferdinand remarked that the pressure at Manchester United had impacted both players’ performances, contrasting it with the more supportive settings at Napoli and Betis.
Antony has spoken emotionally about his time at United, sharing how it affected his mental health and left him struggling off the pitch. He described a deep loss of motivation and energy, highlighting the toll it took on his personal life.
At Napoli, McTominay quickly became a fan favorite. Joining in a £25.7 million transfer, he finally secured a consistent role, something he lacked at United. His manager, Antonio Conte, praised the Scottish international’s growth and commitment, calling him a complete player now entering a prime phase in his career.
Both players’ revitalized form underlines the difference a new environment can make, especially when the pressures of a massive club like Manchester United become too much to bear.