Scott McTominay to Undergo Minor Heart Procedure

Napoli have confirmed that Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay will undergo a minor heart procedure after the discovery of what the club describe as “a mild benign arrhythmia”.

The 29-year-old was withdrawn after 56 minutes of Sunday’s 2-1 Serie A defeat away to Como. At the time, the substitution raised eyebrows; now the reason is clear. Medical checks carried out afterwards revealed the irregular heartbeat, and specialists have recommended corrective treatment.

Napoli say the procedure will take place “in the coming days” and are planning for McTominay to be back in action after the international break in early October. The tone from the club is calm, and the condition is considered non-serious.

“See you soon Napoli. I won't take long.”

McTominay himself struck an upbeat note on Instagram, addressing supporters directly. The optimism is welcome, but the timing is brutal for Scotland. His short spell on the sidelines means he is set to miss Sebastien Pocognoli’s first four matches in charge of the national team – a home-and-away double-header against Slovenia, plus Nations League fixtures against North Macedonia and Switzerland.

For a new head coach trying to stamp authority and identity on a squad, losing a senior figure with McTominay’s experience and versatility is a significant early blow.

According to the NHS, an arrhythmia is when the heart beats too quickly, too slowly, or with an irregular rhythm. In McTominay’s case, Napoli have stressed the issue is mild and benign, and the expectation is that he will resume his season once the procedure and recovery are complete.

Napoli now plan the next few weeks without a key midfielder, Scotland must redraw their early Pocognoli-era plans, and McTominay faces a short spell on the sidelines. All eyes turn to October, and how quickly he can pick up where he left off.