Scott McTominay has disclosed that he underwent medical treatment to correct an irregular heartbeat just 48 hours before Scotland’s World Cup victory against Haiti in June. The Napoli midfielder recently had an ablation procedure in Manchester, which is a minimally invasive operation designed to fix irregular heart rhythms.
World Cup Treatment and Return to Action
Ahead of the tournament, the 29-year-old was put to sleep to correct his heartbeat before receiving medical clearance to play in the opening 1-0 win against Haiti in Massachusetts. He also played the full 90 minutes in subsequent losses to Morocco and Brazil.
As reported by BBC Sport, the former Manchester United player reflected on the sudden health scare. “I had to go and get the shock on my heart,” he said.
“I was two days before the Haiti game. You’ve prepared so well. I was in such good condition and then something like that happens. You’re thinking, ‘how is this happening to me’?”
He acknowledged that while he had to accept the unexpected obstacle, being in a hospital bed immediately before a major tournament opener was far from ideal. McTominay later missed Scotland’s opening four Nations League fixtures, which yielded a win, a draw, and two defeats, but has now earned a recall after returning to action for Napoli.
Recovery and Focus on the Future
The midfielder praised both his club and the medical professionals who cared for him during the autumn. He is currently with the Scotland squad under Sebastien Pocognoli as they prepare to host North Macedonia and travel to face Switzerland.
“Yeah, I’m good,” McTominay stated to BBC Sport. “I’m feeling much, much better than what I was. I feel like it was something that needed to be done. In your career, you have moments like that where things can take you a bit by surprise.”
He noted that the situation appeared much more alarming to family, friends, and the media who saw reports about a heart condition, but emphasized that the Manchester procedure was straightforward and successful. Scotland are scheduled to face North Macedonia on Friday.
