Allegri issues McTominay warning as Ander Herrera completes emotional Zaragoza return

Massimiliano Allegri has issued a veiled warning to Napoli’s players, including Scotland international Scott McTominay, insisting that “values are important” as he prepares to take charge for the first time ahead of the new Serie A campaign. Meanwhile, former Manchester United midfielder Ander Herrera has completed a sentimental return to Real Zaragoza, the club he first joined as an 11-year-old.

McTominay, who moved to Napoli from United in 2024 and has since established himself as one of Serie A’s standout midfielders, is yet to report back for pre-season following Scotland’s group-stage exit at the World Cup. Allegri, addressing the squad’s return, made clear that commitment and professionalism will be non-negotiable under his management.

“We’ll get to know each other,” Allegri said. “Values are important. McTominay and [Noa] Lang will arrive before August 5. It will be important to work with seriousness and professionalism and above all, to lay the groundwork for reaching March. As I always say, that’s when seasons are decided, still in contention for all our objectives: Serie A, the Champions League, the Italian Cup.”

The comments carry added significance given McTominay’s talismanic status at the Naples club, and Allegri’s reputation as a disciplinarian who demands total buy-in from his squad.

Elsewhere, Herrera’s return to Zaragoza draws a line under a career journey that took him from Spain to England, France, and Argentina. The 35-year-old joined Manchester United in 2014 for £29 million and made nearly 200 appearances over five seasons, contributing to FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and Europa League victories before departing for Paris Saint-Germain in 2019. Spells at Athletic Bilbao and Boca Juniors followed before his homecoming.

Zaragoza confirmed the signing with a statement that read: “Ander’s return is an unequivocal sign of belonging and represents the return of a Zaragoza native at a crucial” moment for the club.

Back at Old Trafford, United have been busy reshaping their own midfield under manager Michael Carrick. Andrey Santos arrived from Chelsea in a £50 million deal confirmed on Monday, while Youri Tielemans joined from Aston Villa after his £35 million release clause was activated. Goalkeeper Karl Darlow has also been added on a free transfer following the expiry of his Leeds United contract. United will compete in the Champions League next season.