Former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay scored and was named Man of the Match as Napoli secured a 3-0 victory over Pisa on Sunday, confirming their place in next season's Champions League. The result also triggered Rasmus Hojlund's permanent transfer from Manchester United for £38 million.
McTominay's Impact at Napoli
Since moving from Old Trafford to the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona in 2024, McTominay has established himself as a key figure. He played a pivotal role in Napoli's Scudetto triumph last season and lifted the Italian Supercup in December. On Sunday, he broke the deadlock in the 20th minute with a precise shot. Hojlund added a third goal in second-half stoppage time, sealing the victory and Champions League qualification with a game to spare.
Antonio Conte's side's achievement means the initial loan agreement for Hojlund from United becomes permanent, with Italian media unanimously agreeing that both McTominay and the Danish striker will remain among Napoli's first-choice players.
Italian Media Praise
Gazzetta dello Sport reported: "Hojlund will become a permanent Napoli player this summer following the victory. He, alongside fellow ex-United star McTominay, ranks among Napoli's most influential figures." The publication added: "On an afternoon with a pace not far removed from that of an early August friendly, the Azzurri needed just the strikes of three of their most important players: first McTominay, then Rrahmani and Hojlund."
Eurosport awarded McTominay the Man of the Match title, stating: "He dominates the midfield. He scores the goal to make it 1-0 with a billiard-like shot from a perfect run and fights for every ball." Hojlund was also praised: "He closed the match with the goal to make it 3-0. His composure in front of goal was rewarded for a self-sacrificing performance."
Corriere della Sera noted McTominay's goal tally matched a club record: "McTominay scored double figures, a record for a midfielder. The Scotsman joins Hamsik and thus enters the club's history books." The outlet also confirmed Hojlund's fifteenth goal of the season set a personal league record and triggered the buyout clause.
Champions League Qualification Secured
The victory over Pisa ensures Napoli will compete in Europe's top club competition next season. Conte's team now face Udinese in their final match, with only league position at stake. Italian media agree that McTominay and Hojlund will continue to be central to Napoli's plans.
