Antonio Conte: McTominay Is Napoli's Reason At The Scudetto Threshold

Scott McTominay is more complete playing at Napoli than Manchester United (Instagram/@officialsscnapoli).

JAKARTA - Napoli's manager, Antonio Conte, praised Scott McTominay's rise. He highlighted the maturity and influence of the Scottish midfielder as the Serie A leader entered the defining final weeks in the race for the Scudetto.

Conte's squad was in a strong position before the match on Saturday, May 3, 2025, against Lecce with a three-point lead over inconsistent Inter Milan in second place with four games remaining.

He highlighted McTominay's contribution, which has helped fill the void left by Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's departure to Paris Saint-Germain in January 2025.

He scored five goals in his last three games with I Partenopei and 11 league goals this season.

The Scottish player moved to Naples from Manchester United in the transfer window before the start of the season.

"He feels more complete and knowledgeable. He has reached an important stage in his career where he needs to decide his direction."

"He never had a major role at Manchester United, while we gave him one role."

"He worked hard and now he is a complete player. His development has been shared by the whole team."

"Otherwise, it will be difficult to explain how we got 74 points," Conte said on Friday, May 2, 2025, local time.

With an opponent that seems easier at least on paper, the belief that Napoli will win a second Serie A title in three seasons is starting to grow, but Conte doesn't underestimate anything.

"We knew it would be amazing, but we haven't done anything. I know football well and we have to stay focused," he said.

The 55-year-old is in pole position to win his fifth Serie A crown as manager after one with Inter Milan and three at Juventus.

"I've won some Scudettos and now we're trying to do something inconceivable, extraordinary, something that can definitely bring great joy to this club and city."

"It would be great. However, we haven't achieved anything. I know football and it demands a big focus."

"My message to everyone around the club is to stay united. Whatever happens tomorrow, there will still be three games left."

"We have a solid basis. We will be in the Champions League next season and that's important."

"Today we are fighting for the Scudetto and it should be a source of pride and joy."

"After only two years, Napoli are again competing for the grand prize," Conte said.