Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay is expected to miss the start of new head coach Sebastien Pocognoli’s tenure after Napoli confirmed that he will undergo a minor procedure to correct a heart rhythm abnormality.
The 29-year-old midfielder was diagnosed with what Napoli described as a “mild benign arrhythmia” following medical examinations at the Italian club.
McTominay was substituted after 56 minutes during Napoli’s 2-1 Serie A defeat to Como on Sunday, with the club subsequently announcing plans for him to undergo cardiac arrhythmia ablation in the coming days.
The procedure is intended to correct the irregular heartbeat by blocking abnormal electrical signals in the heart and helping restore a normal rhythm.
Napoli expect McTominay to return to competitive action after the international break in early October.
That recovery timeline means the midfielder is likely to miss Scotland’s first four matches under Pocognoli, including Nations League fixtures against Slovenia home and away, North Macedonia and Switzerland.
McTominay’s absence would be a setback for Pocognoli as he begins his tenure with the Scotland national team, given the midfielder’s importance to both Napoli and the national side.
Despite the development, McTominay sought to reassure Napoli supporters that he expects to return soon.
“See you soon Napoli. I won’t take long,” he wrote on social media.
The former Manchester United midfielder has established himself as an important figure at Napoli since moving to Italy and has continued to play a key role in the club’s midfield.
Napoli’s medical team is expected to monitor his recovery following the procedure before determining when he can resume full training and competitive football.
