Sir Jim Ratcliffe is reportedly regretting one of Manchester United’s most debated transfer moves in recent memory the sale of Scott McTominay.
Sources close to Old Trafford claim the British billionaire believes parting ways with the Scottish midfielder was a huge mistake made during Ruben Amorim’s early months as manager.
McTominay, who was offloaded for what Ratcliffe has privately described as “next to nothing,” has gone on to become one of the Premier League’s standout midfielders this season.
His resurgence has shocked many within United’s hierarchy, with Ratcliffe in particular said to be frustrated that the club gave up a player now outperforming high-profile names such as Enzo Fernández and Bryan Mbeumo.
The decision to sell McTominay was largely influenced by Amorim’s tactical vision. The Portuguese coach wanted to reshape United’s midfield with younger, technically refined players capable of fitting into his possession-based, fluid system. He felt McTominay’s dynamic, box-to-box style didn’t align with that philosophy.
However, recent events have cast doubt over that judgment. Since leaving Old Trafford, McTominay has been in exceptional form, contributing crucial goals and dominating midfield battles week after week.
Ratcliffe, reflecting on the midfielder’s transformation, reportedly told colleagues, “We sold him for a penny, and now he’s among the best in the league. If he were still here, we might be in the title race.”
His words echo the growing sentiment among fans that the club let go of a player who embodied United’s old-school determination and fight.
McTominay’s evolution has been one of the Premier League’s most impressive storylines. Once criticized for being too limited technically, the 27-year-old has elevated his game adding tactical awareness, composure, and consistency to his natural energy and physicality.
His aerial strength, leadership, and knack for scoring key goals have made him a talisman at his new club.
Pundits have even compared his transformation to the likes of Declan Rice and John McGinn, both of whom are considered elite midfielders in English football.
Behind the scenes, Ratcliffe’s irritation reportedly goes beyond McTominay’s departure. He is believed to be increasingly uneasy with Amorim’s recruitment strategy, which heavily favors continental imports over proven Premier League players.
To Ratcliffe, McTominay symbolized more than just a squad member — he was a product of United’s culture: loyal, passionate, and proud to wear the badge. “Scott gave everything every single game,” said one insider. “Selling him never felt right.”
Supporters have echoed that feeling online. Many argue that Amorim underestimated McTominay’s importance, with one fan writing, “He’s scoring every week while our midfield still looks lost.” Another added, “McTominay wasn’t just ability he was heart.
He lived and breathed Manchester United.” Even rival fans have acknowledged his remarkable improvement since leaving Old Trafford.
Amorim now finds himself under mounting pressure. While his defensive structure has drawn praise, his midfield choices remain divisive and Ratcliffe’s growing doubts could strain their relationship further if results don’t improve.
For Ratcliffe, McTominay’s revival serves as a painful reminder that in football, numbers and tactics can’t replace spirit and loyalty. As he reportedly told close associates, “If he was still here, we’d be fighting for the title.”
Those words capture what many Manchester United fans feel regret over losing one of their own who truly represented what the club stands for.
