Scott McTominay has gone from Premier League role player to Serie A superstar in less than a season, and in doing so, he’s cemented his place in Napoli folklore. After a sensational campaign that saw him score 12 goals, the Scottish midfielder played a crucial role in securing Napoli’s fourth Serie A title — and was crowned the league’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) for the 2024–25 season.

The defining moment came when Scott McTominay fired home a stunning acrobatic volley against Cagliari, opening the scoring in a match that would seal the title for Napoli. Romelu Lukaku, McTominay’s former Manchester United teammate, added a second goal to make it a comfortable win and confirm their historic triumph.

As the final whistle blew, McTominay collapsed to the ground, overwhelmed by emotion. “I’m lost for words,” he told reporters. “The sacrifice that every single player in the group has put forward to the cause… it’s just incredible. And the people of Naples deserve it — they’ve been behind us from day one.”

Leaving Manchester United, where he spent his entire professional career, was a massive gamble for Scott McTominay. But his move to Naples has proven to be nothing short of transformational. At United, he often played in a defensive midfield role; under Antonio Conte at Napoli, he was given the freedom to surge forward — and the results were spectacular.

McTominay finished the season as Serie A’s top-scoring midfielder with 12 league goals and another in the Coppa Italia. He was named Player of the Month in April and is also shortlisted for May. His contributions extended beyond the scoresheet — he became a tactical centerpiece for Conte, who shifted his system to give McTominay maximum attacking freedom.

“In Conte’s system, McTominay isn’t a builder — he’s a raider,” explained Naples-based journalist Vincenzo Credendino. “He’s the perfect complement to a traditional number nine like Lukaku. Conte and McTominay are a match made in football heaven.”

Scott McTominay didn’t just win games — he won hearts. Fans in Naples have gone above and beyond in showing their appreciation for the Scotland international. From tattoos and flags to cakes and shrines, his image is everywhere. Locals even affectionately call him “McFratm” — Neapolitan slang for “McBro.” He’s also been nicknamed “McTerminator,” “MacGyver,” and “Apribottiglie” (the bottle opener), a nod to his ability to unlock games in crucial moments — eight of his 12 goals came when the score was 0–0.

Naples is famously a one-club city that reveres its heroes, most notably Diego Maradona. And while no one will reach the heights of the Argentine legend, Scott McTominay has come as close as any modern player can.

How Scott McTominay Became a Napoli Legend After Leaving Manchester United
Even Scottish restaurants have embraced his legend. At San Ciro’s in Edinburgh, a sign reads: “Napoli. McTominay. Pizza. In that order.” Co-owner Ciro Sartore explained: “Napoli fans love it when a player commits to the city. And Scott did that from day one. Scoring goals helps, but so does kissing the badge and learning the language.”

Before this season, no Scottish player had ever won a Serie A title. Now, there are two: Scott McTominay and fellow Scot Billy Gilmour, who also joined Napoli last summer and played a significant role in their midfield. Over at Bologna, Lewis Ferguson captained his side to a Coppa Italia victory, joining Graeme Souness as one of the few Scots to lift silverware in Italy.

Scott McTominay

McTominay’s commitment to his new home even extends to its cuisine. In a recent interview, he raved about the local produce: “The tomatoes in Naples actually taste like tomatoes. Back home, they were just red water. Now I eat them like snacks.”

As Napoli fans look ahead, one thing is clear — Scott McTominay is more than just a player; he’s a symbol of this team’s passion, grit, and resurgence. With his attacking prowess, leadership qualities, and deep bond with the city, he has become the heart of a team that defied expectations and dominated Italy.

From Manchester United academy product to Neapolitan icon, Scott McTominay’s journey is one of bold choices, relentless work ethic, and unforgettable triumph.