Scott McTominay: Napoli star relishes playing with De Bruyne

Speaking at Wimbledon on a return trip to the UK McTominay believes the move abroad has strengthened his mentality.

“The people in Naples are incredible, they’re so passionate and everywhere you go there are people who say ‘Forza Napoli’ and they want to speak to you and have a conversation and that inspires you every time you go on the pitch because they care,” he said.

“It’s different, a totally different way of life over there – the way you eat, the way you live and all that. It gives you more mental strength.

“I’ve always lived very close to my mum, so I could go whenever I wanted.

“Whereas now I live 1,500 miles away so I can’t just go home and see my mum, my family, my sister and my kids so it’s different, but in life you sometimes have to take yourself out of your comfort zone and I’ve always prided myself on that.

“I would never want to be in my comfort zone, and if I can go away anywhere and establish myself and do well, why not? Who’s to stop me doing that?”

Back at McTominay’s former club, Manchester United, another rebuild is ongoing as they aim to improve on a last season’s 15th-placed finish in the Premier League.

“I always want the absolute best for Manchester United, it’s been my life for 22-23 years,” he added.

“For me, I wish the club all the success in the world and I’ll be with them every step of the way. I want them to do well.”