The Scotland international had spent the entirety of his career at United, having joined the club at just five years old, before he opted to make a £25 million ($33.6m) switch to Napoli in the final hours of the summer transfer window.

United published a lengthy statement confirming the 27-year-old's departure, saying that he "gave his all for his boyhood club and earned the respect and trust of each of his managers". The article concluded: "McTominay will be missed by everyone at the club and leaves with our best wishes as he embarks on a new chapter of his career in Italy... Good luck, Scott, arrivederci and thank you for the fabulous memories."

Earlier on Friday, coach Erik ten Hag admitted that he wanted the midfielder to stay with the Red Devils and that he had "mixed feelings" about the transfer.

United's announcement prompted some emotional comments from the club's supporters, with many expressing their sadness.

"It was time to move on, but I felt this one, not going to lie," @UtdFaithfuls wrote on X.

"I miss him already. What a player," said @sanixutd, while @Annychizzy wrote: "The tears are flowing now. Thank you for everything Scott."

"All the best Scott. I know it's the right move for you," said @abhishek_ux. "But losing someone like you will always hurt. Hope you will show the owners and be back here one day for sure."

Another fan, @da_yellaman, said: "I'm absolutely heartbroken by this. I absolutely love Scott McTominay and whilst I'm absolutely delighted for him to get this move, I'm gutted he's gone. Thanks for everything [McTominay]. All the best."

"I'm usually glad to see the back of most players leaving United lately, but I'm gutted to see McTominay leave. Gave everything for the shirt," @cameron91 commented.

McTominay will team up with fellow ex-United star Romelu Lukaku at the Serie A side after the Belgian attacker joined completed a long-awaited transfer from Chelsea. Napoli will take on Parma in the Italian top-flight on Saturday.