“From the instant I laid eyes on him, I had a strong belief that he would develop into a world-class midfielder. Even if I were to depart this club and potentially join Real Madrid or Manchester City, I would undoubtedly seek to secure his signature. He evokes memories of Zinedine Zidane…” – Erik ten Hag reminisces about an early encounter with a Manchester United star whom he believes will ascend to world-class status and garner global recognition within two years.

Erik ten Hag has reflected on his early observations of Scott McTominay during Manchester United’s training sessions, noting the midfielder’s proficiency in finishing from an early stage. Scott McTominay has recently emerged as a significant figure in discussions, showcasing his prowess by becoming Manchester United’s hero on several occasions in the past few months, despite previous doubts about his future under Erik ten Hag’s management.

McTominay appeared destined for a move to West Ham in the summer, especially after Manchester United acquired Mason Mount, which led to the midfielder being considered surplus to requirements.

Yet, just four months later, he has emerged as Manchester United’s top scorer this season, netting six goals, including two crucial ones in the recent 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Wednesday afternoon.

In his pre-match press conference ahead of the Bournemouth fixture, Erik ten Hag, the Dutch manager, noted that Scott McTominay’s ability to score was evident from the first moments he observed him train. “Actually, from the first moment I saw him, [I realized] he has a very good instinct for getting into the box, and he is a proficient finisher.

That comes as no surprise,” Ten Hag remarked on Friday afternoon. “When we execute our game plan and deliver the balls to them as intended, he will deliver the finishes.”

McTominay is not the sole player to have faced limitations at Old Trafford this season, with his fellow countryman Harry Maguire rightfully earning substantial praise after reclaiming his spot in the starting lineup.

Maguire recently earned the Premier League Player of the Month award for November, having started, won, and maintained clean sheets in all three of the team’s league matches in that month.

Regarding McTominay and himself, Maguire stated: “I believe we have a deep squad, and within the squad, there is healthy internal competition. To have a successful season, you need more than just 11 players. Ultimately, throughout the season, situations will change, and the best team will emerge. We have excellent players here who contribute to the team’s success. That level of dedication is what we expect from every player.”

Erik ten Hag has reflected on his early observations of Scott McTominay during Manchester United’s training sessions, noting the midfielder’s proficiency in finishing from an early stage. Scott McTominay has recently emerged as a significant figure in discussions, showcasing his prowess by becoming Manchester United’s hero on several occasions in the past few months, despite previous doubts about his future under Erik ten Hag’s management.

McTominay appeared destined for a move to West Ham in the summer, especially after Manchester United acquired Mason Mount, which led to the midfielder being considered surplus to requirements.

Yet, just four months later, he has emerged as Manchester United’s top scorer this season, netting six goals, including two crucial ones in the recent 2-1 victory over Chelsea at Old Trafford on Wednesday afternoon.

In his pre-match press conference ahead of the Bournemouth fixture, Erik ten Hag, the Dutch manager, noted that Scott McTominay’s ability to score was evident from the first moments he observed him train. “Actually, from the first moment I saw him, [I realized] he has a very good instinct for getting into the box, and he is a proficient finisher.

That comes as no surprise,” Ten Hag remarked on Friday afternoon. “When we execute our game plan and deliver the balls to them as intended, he will deliver the finishes.”

McTominay is not the sole player to have faced limitations at Old Trafford this season, with his fellow countryman Harry Maguire rightfully earning substantial praise after reclaiming his spot in the starting lineup.

Maguire recently earned the Premier League Player of the Month award for November, having started, won, and maintained clean sheets in all three of the team’s league matches in that month.

Regarding McTominay and himself, Maguire stated: “I believe we have a deep squad, and within the squad, there is healthy internal competition. To have a successful season, you need more than just 11 players. Ultimately, throughout the season, situations will change, and the best team will emerge. We have excellent players here who contribute to the team’s success. That level of dedication is what we expect from every player.”