Ever since Scott McTominay joined Napoli from Manchester United, Antonio Conte has been using him in a fixed position.
Instead of using him deeper in midfield, the Italian has made space for the Scotland international to operate in the final third. For McTominay, Conte has even changed his shape, often using a back four to make sure the goals he provided at Manchester United can also come for Napoli.
That approach has worked, with the ex-United man shining in the final third and he has two goals to his name so far.
Strangely, journalist Ciccio Marolda isn’t a fan of Conte using McTominay in the final third. In a chat with Televomero, he made his views clear.
He said, as relayed by CalcioNapoli24: “McTominay? He gets lost there. I don’t agree with those who see him as a second striker, if he is moved away from midfield the team is weakened.”
The view is perhaps influenced by McTominay’s physical abilities off the ball and how Napoli have struggled with the physical aspect in midfield.
History suggests that the 27-year-old’s best at Manchester United came when he was used in the box, as he scored vital goals and was always a get-out-of-jail card for Erik ten Hag.
While playing deeper in midfield, McTominay was found wanting from a technical perspective but that weakness gets eliminated when he plays further forward.
Conte has understood that and as he does for other players, is looking to erase McTominay’s weaknesses. What he is doing is wise and it will bear fruit, if it isn’t already.
