Scott McTominay to undergo heart procedure
Scott McTominay is set to undergo a corrective heart procedure after being diagnosed with a mild benign arrhythmia, Napoli have confirmed, reports BritPanorama.
The former Manchester United midfielder will temporarily step away from football while receiving treatment for the irregular heartbeat. Napoli expects McTominay to return after the forthcoming international break, though the procedure is likely to prevent him from representing Scotland during their next four fixtures.
In a medical update, Napoli announced, “Following the onset of a mild benign arrhythmia, Scott McTominay will undergo corrective surgery using a cardiac arrhythmia ablation (PFA) in the coming days.” The club reiterated that he “will be available again after the international break.”
Cardiac ablation is a procedure aimed at treating abnormal heart rhythms by targeting the tissue responsible for interrupting the heart’s electrical signals. Typically, a small incision is made in the groin or wrist, and thin tubes called catheters are navigated through a blood vessel to the heart.
The tissue causing the arrhythmia is then treated with methods that may include radiofrequency energy or cryoablation. According to the British Heart Foundation, some procedures can take as little as 15 minutes, although the duration varies based on the treatment required.
McTominay has started both of Napoli’s Serie A matches this season, with his last appearance being a substitution during their 2-1 defeat against Como. The 29-year-old’s absence represents a setback for Napoli, as he has quickly become a crucial figure since his move from Manchester United.
Moreover, Scotland will likely begin their Nations League campaign without McTominay, one of their key players. The international window is set to commence on September 21, during which Scotland will play four matches, including two against Slovenia, as they work under new manager Sebastien Pocognoli.
Pocognoli, recently appointed as Steve Clarke’s successor, will hope to guide the national team out of a disappointing World Cup cycle, having failed to progress beyond the group stage with only one goal scored in three matches.
This situation serves as a reminder of the unexpected challenges athletes face—personal health concerns overshadowing their professional ambitions, especially at international levels where every player’s contribution is vital.
