Scott McTominay to Miss Scotland’s Upcoming Nations League Matches After Heart Procedure
Scott McTominay will miss Scotland’s upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures after Napoli confirmed that the midfielder is set to undergo a minor procedure to correct a mild heart rhythm problem.
The 29-year-old Scotland international has been diagnosed with a mild, benign arrhythmia, meaning an irregular heartbeat. Napoli said the condition is not considered serious, but it requires medical treatment before McTominay can return to competitive action. The club expects him to be available again after the international break.
Why is McTominay unavailable?
McTominay is being ruled out because he will undergo a pulsed-field ablation (PFA) procedure to correct the abnormal heart rhythm. Napoli announced that the treatment is planned for the coming days and that the midfielder will remain unavailable until after the international break.
Although news of a heart-related issue can naturally cause concern, reports from Napoli and other outlets describe the arrhythmia as mild and benign. The procedure is intended to correct the rhythm problem and allow McTominay to return safely to football.
McTominay had featured in Napoli’s opening matches of the new Serie A campaign, but he was substituted during the club’s 2–1 defeat against Como on August 30. His absence will now affect both his club and country commitments.
Major blow for Scotland
McTominay has become one of Scotland’s most important midfielders in recent years, making his absence a significant setback for the national team.
Scotland are preparing for their 2026–27 Nations League campaign, with matches against Slovenia, Switzerland and North Macedonia scheduled during the opening international window. The Scottish FA has confirmed that Scotland are in Nations League Group B1 alongside those three nations.
The upcoming fixtures include Slovenia vs Scotland on September 26, Scotland vs Switzerland on September 29, North Macedonia vs Scotland on October 3, and Scotland vs Slovenia on October 6.
With McTominay unavailable, Scotland will have to find another way to replace his energy, physical presence and ability to contribute in both midfield and attack.
A key player for club and country
McTominay has developed into a particularly influential player for Scotland. His ability to make late runs into the penalty area, win challenges and contribute goals has made him an important part of the national team's midfield.
At Napoli, he has also established himself as a major contributor since moving to Italy. His performances have helped him become a popular figure among Napoli supporters and one of the most recognisable Scottish players competing in Serie A.
His absence therefore represents more than simply losing another squad player. Scotland will be missing a midfielder capable of influencing games at both ends of the pitch.
When could McTominay return?
Napoli have indicated that McTominay is expected to return after the international break. The exact timing will depend on his recovery and medical assessment following the procedure.
Reports suggest the absence is expected to be temporary rather than a long-term problem. Napoli are confident that the midfielder can return once he has completed the necessary recovery process.
That will come as encouraging news for both Napoli and Scotland, particularly because McTominay remains an important part of their plans for the season ahead.
Scotland forced to adapt
McTominay’s absence gives Scotland’s midfield alternatives an opportunity to step forward. The coaching staff will now have to decide how best to replace his physical strength, defensive work and attacking contribution.
The timing is particularly important because the Nations League campaign will provide Scotland with a series of competitive fixtures in a short period. Strong performances in the opening matches will be important as Scotland look to build momentum in the group.
For McTominay, however, the immediate priority will be his recovery. With the condition described as mild and benign and the procedure designed to correct the irregular rhythm, the expectation is that he will be able to return to football once he is medically cleared.
The bigger picture
While McTominay’s absence is a major disappointment for Scotland, the latest reports indicate that the problem is treatable and that the midfielder is expected to make a full recovery.
For now, Scotland must prepare for their Nations League matches without one of their most influential midfielders. McTominay will focus on completing his procedure and recovery, with supporters hoping to see him back on the pitch as soon as it is safe for him to return.
His absence will undoubtedly be felt, but the priority remains ensuring that the Napoli midfielder makes a complete recovery before returning to international and club football.