When Scott McTominay left Manchester United for Napoli in August 2024, there were questions about whether the Scottish midfielder could adapt to the demands of Italian football.

Today, that move is seen as a masterstroke. McTominay has not only adapted to Serie A but has become a crucial figure in Napoli’s midfield.

The early signs were promising. McTominay scored his first goal for Napoli in a 5-0 Coppa Italia thrashing of Palermo, assisted by Romelu Lukaku, his former Manchester United teammate.

His Serie A debut goal came within just 26 seconds against Como, a moment that set the tone for what would become an outstanding first season.

Over the past two years, McTominay’s growth has been steady. But it is the 2024–25 season where he has truly shone. Playing under Antonio Conte’s demanding style, McTominay has added tactical sharpness to his already combative style.

His ability to shield the defence, initiate attacks, and run into scoring positions like he did at Manchester United has given Napoli another layer of threat. His 12 goals this season have not only been his personal best but have also broken Denis Law’s long-standing record for a Scottish player in Serie A.

Italian media outlets like Gazzetta dello Sport have praised McTominay’s “spirit of sacrifice and strength,” highlighting his leadership in key games, such as the decisive 2-0 win over Torino that took Napoli three points clear at the top of the table.

Partnership with Lukaku and Goal Contributions

One major factor behind McTominay’s success is his rekindled partnership with Romelu Lukaku.

Their chemistry, formed during their Manchester United days, has been key to Napoli’s fluid attacking play this season. McTominay often drives from midfield while Lukaku holds the ball up or creates space, a combination that has repeatedly undone Serie A defences.

Between them, they have been involved in 27 goals this season, with McTominay contributing 12 goals and 7 assists, many of which have come through direct link-up with Lukaku.

Their understanding on the pitch, particularly in tight games, has been vital to Napoli’s resurgence.

Whether breaking defensive lines or orchestrating counter-attacks, their partnership has provided Napoli with a devastating one-two punch that Serie A rivals have struggled to contain.

Now an undisputed leader in the squad, McTominay’s transformation from a squad player at Manchester United to a driving force in a title-contending Napoli side has been remarkable.

As the season nears its climax, he remains one of the standout midfielders not just in Italy but across Europe.