Manchester United are setting their sights on a return to European competition next season, with plenty of free midweeks this campaign to prepare for domestic challenges. Ruben Amorim, however, has his hands full keeping tabs on the continental stage, including monitoring the progress of Rasmus Hojlund during his loan spell at Napoli.
The striker found it hard to convince the United head coach that he could be part of his future plans, especially with Benjamin Sesko's arrival limiting his playing time. The Danish international then opted to return to Serie A, hoping to rediscover the form he displayed at Atalanta before his move to Old Trafford. Hojlund seemed to do just that early on, scoring four times across all competitions, including two Champions League goals, but he has faced difficulties in recent weeks.
He had a chance to break this tough streak in midweek when Napoli faced Qarabag in another significant European match, as the on-loan United forward was given an opportunity to put his side ahead from the penalty spot. However, it wasn't meant to be, as his shot was too central and goalkeeper Mateusz Kochalski managed to deflect the effort, keeping the scores level.
This comes as a significant setback for Hojlund, but fortunately, former United star Scott McTominay stepped up in spectacular fashion. The Scotland international made his mark with two crucial contributions during the match, nodding home a close-range rebound to put Napoli ahead just past the hour, before his subsequent attempt resulted in an own-goal, sealing a comfortable 2-0 triumph for the Italian side.
Following the final whistle, McTominay shared his thoughts on social media, writing: "Champions league nights. The real MVP's always," accompanied by a photograph alongside Napoli's backroom team. The 28-year-old has been in sensational form since departing Old Trafford in 2024, establishing himself as a key figure for both club and country.
His performances proved vital in helping Scotland secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup, where they pipped Denmark and Hojlund to first place in their qualifying section. Whilst the two former teammates are now reunited in Naples, their fortunes in front of goal couldn't be more contrasting, with McTominay continuing to find the net with regularity, while Hojlund remains without a goal in his last half-dozen appearances.