Scott McTominay gives Napoli the lead just before halftime

Scott McTominay did what he has made a habit of doing at Napoli: show up when it matters most. The Scotland international midfielder put his side ahead just before the halftime whistle, adding another goal to a personal tally that has grown considerably since his move to southern Italy.

For a player who cost Napoli £25.7 million when he arrived from Manchester United in August 2024, the return on investment has been difficult to argue with.

From Old Trafford to the Azzurri

McTominay’s transfer to Napoli on August 30, 2024, raised a few eyebrows at the time. He was a reliable if unspectacular presence at Manchester United, a midfielder known more for his engine and defensive discipline than for putting the ball in the net.

His goal against Cagliari on March 20, 2026, arriving just two minutes into the match, was a good illustration of how he has evolved.

A contract that signals long-term intent

Napoli’s commitment to McTominay goes beyond one good season. His contract runs until June 30, 2028, which means the club has tied its midfield plans to him for the foreseeable future.

Scotland’s World Cup midfielder

McTominay’s club form translated onto the international stage as well. He featured for Scotland in their opening Group C match at the 2026 World Cup, a tournament that represented a significant moment for a national team that has historically found qualification difficult enough, let alone progression.

What comes next for Napoli

With the regular season in the rearview mirror, Napoli are turning their attention to pre-season preparation. Their next scheduled fixture is a friendly against Aris Thessaloniki on August 12, 2026.

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