Scott McTominay: The Unlikeley Journey to Ballon d'Or Recognition
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Scott McTominay: The Unlikeley Journey to Ballon d'Or Recognition

Scott McTominay: The Unlikely Journey to Ballon d'Or Recognition

Once written off as little more than a squad filler at Manchester United, Scott McTominay now finds himself in football’s most elite company. Nominated for the 2025 Ballon d’Or, the 28-year-old midfielder’s rise from academy hopeful to Neapolitan hero has defied expectations and silenced critics. In a season where his commanding presence helped guide Napoli to a Serie A title, and his late goals dragged Scotland to Euro 2024, McTominay has emerged not just as a clutch player — but as a genuine contender for individual recognition on the world stage.

This is the story of a career transformed — shaped by tactical reinvention, steely resilience, and a burning refusal to be boxed in.

From Lancaster to La Scala: The Early Years and Manchester United Breakthrough

Born in Lancaster but representing Scotland through his father’s heritage, McTominay’s footballing journey began at Manchester United's academy, where he arrived as a seven-year-old. A growth spurt in his late teens saw him shoot up in stature, and under the guidance of youth coaches like Warren Joyce and Nicky Butt, he developed into a box-to-box midfielder with surprising technical ability.

McTominay’s senior breakthrough came in the 2017/18 season under José Mourinho. He impressed with his work ethic, positional discipline, and ability to carry the ball through midfield, earning a regular place in the first-team squad during a period when United were desperate for physicality and reliability in the middle of the park.

Mourinho’s Unlikely Endorsement

While McTominay didn’t immediately light up Old Trafford with flair, he earned an unlikely ally in José Mourinho. The Portuguese manager publicly praised the youngster’s mentality and professionalism, naming him United’s “Manager’s Player of the Year” for 2017/18 — ahead of more established stars.

Mourinho’s support gave McTominay something few expected: time. In an era of short-termism, his endorsement bought him the breathing room to develop within a turbulent club setup. He was often asked to play out of position, even filling in as a centre-back on occasion, but always did so with commitment and tactical awareness beyond his years.

The “McFred” Years

As Manchester United’s post-Ferguson rebuild stumbled on, McTominay found himself increasingly deployed as a holding midfielder — often partnered with Fred in a double pivot. The duo became synonymous with caution, ball-winning industry, and a lack of progressive play.

Dubbed "McFred" by fans and pundits alike, the pairing was regularly criticised for its limitations, seen as symbols of United's tactical conservatism. Yet beneath the mockery was a player who remained consistent, reliable, and always willing to put the team first — even at the expense of showcasing his own more advanced abilities.

This period, while frustrating creatively, hardened McTominay. He matured tactically and learned to cope with scrutiny — lessons that would prove invaluable later in his career.

A New Role Under Ten Hag

When Erik ten Hag arrived at Old Trafford in 2022, there was speculation McTominay might be moved on. Instead, the Dutchman saw something in him — a player capable of offering vertical threat and late runs into the box. Ten Hag began deploying McTominay in a more advanced role, especially in moments when United needed a goal.

“He’s a very good finisher,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports. “He's got the smell. It’s a matter of organisation. We need players in the right position... He's ready to bring this energy. He is always giving the spirit in the week — ready for one minute, ready for 90 minutes. Great to have such a player."

It was this trust that unlocked a new dimension in McTominay’s game — marked by key goals, clutch performances, and a revived sense of purpose at both club and international level.

Scotland’s Qualifying Hero

McTominay’s transformation on the pitch translated seamlessly into international form. During Scotland’s Euro 2024 qualifying campaign, he became the unexpected talisman in Steve Clarke’s setup — scoring seven goals across the qualifiers, including a memorable brace in a 2–0 win over Spain at Hampden Park.

His goals often arrived at crucial moments. From late equalisers to match-winners, McTominay was no longer just part of the system — he was the heartbeat of it.

Though Scotland exited Euro 2024 at the group stage — drawing with Switzerland and losing to Germany and Hungary — McTominay’s standing had shifted. He was no longer merely a solid performer but had become a true leader and difference-maker.

Clutch Player for Club and Country

The 2023–24 season was when McTominay made a habit of turning games. In the Premier League, he came off the bench to score dramatic late goals — most memorably against Brentford and Aston Villa — earning United vital points and further cementing his “clutch” reputation.

For both United and Scotland, he became the go-to man when urgency was needed. His timing of runs, composure in tight spaces, and growing confidence in front of goal gave him a new aura — one previously lacking in his career.

By now, McTominay wasn’t just surviving at the highest level. He was influencing it.

Title Glory in Naples: A Season to Remember

In August 2024, Italian giants Napoli signed McTominay for €30 million. Antonio Conte, newly appointed as manager, saw the Scotsman as a key piece of his rebuild following Napoli’s inconsistent domestic campaigns.

By then, Napoli had started to part ways with key stars from their title-winning squad. Victor Osimhen left for Galatasaray in September 2024, while Khvicha Kvaratskhelia departed for Paris Saint-Germain in January 2025. The departures placed further pressure on McTominay to become a central figure — and he didn’t disappoint.

Forming a formidable spine alongside Romelu Lukaku, McTominay flourished in a more advanced, box-to-box midfield role. Freed from the constraints of the double pivot, he showcased intelligent forward runs, positional discipline, and an eye for goal that many at Old Trafford had never seen.

His numbers reflected that evolution: 12 goals and 6 assists across all competitions. But it wasn’t just the statistics. McTominay became a hero in Naples, adored by the passionate home support for his work ethic, personality, and clutch performances in big games. His relentless energy, leadership, and goalscoring instinct made him indispensable.

In his debut season, he helped guide Napoli to their second Serie A title in three years — and was named Serie A Player of the Season. After years of playing second fiddle, McTominay was finally the star.

Conte’s Masterstroke: Tactical Evolution in Naples

Antonio Conte’s arrival at Napoli in June 2024 raised eyebrows, but his tactical clarity brought immediate results. In McTominay, he found the perfect engine for his vertical 3-5-2 system.

Rather than restrict him to defensive duties, Conte gave McTominay licence to burst forward, drive transitions, and attack the box. He was deployed as the right-sided mezzala — a role which suited his blend of physicality, timing, and improved decision-making.

The Italian coach’s man-management also played a key role. “Conte gave me belief again,” McTominay told Italian media. “He made it simple — work hard, trust your instincts, and commit to the system. That freedom brought the best out of me.”

Napoli’s New Idol: Embraced by the Fans

In Naples, McTominay became more than a title-winner — he became a fan favourite.

Initially viewed as a pragmatic signing, his relentless energy, match-winning contributions, and clear passion for the badge quickly won over the notoriously demanding Napoli faithful. After years of being a lightning rod at Manchester United, McTominay found a home. In Naples, the love was unconditional. The city had a new warrior — and the player had rediscovered his joy.

Just as significant as his numbers was the connection he forged with the Napoli faithful. In a city where football is followed with almost religious fervour, McTominay’s work rate, passion, and emotion on the pitch struck a chord. He became a fan favourite, with banners in the Curva B stand and chants that echoed through the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona.

After years of doubt and debate at Manchester United, Naples offered him something he hadn’t felt in years — adoration and belief.

Ballon d’Or Recognition

In July 2025, Scott McTominay was named among the nominees for the Ballon d'Or. For many, it was a surprise — not because of his performances, but because of where he had come from.

He wasn’t the flashiest midfielder in Europe. He didn’t dominate headlines with flair or trickery. But his importance, consistency, and clutch factor were undeniable. Across league and international football, McTominay had delivered when it mattered most — and in doing so, forced his way into the most prestigious conversation in football.

The Next Chapter: What Lies Ahead for McTominay?

Now 28, McTominay is entering his peak years with a new sense of identity — a midfielder capable of impacting games at the highest level. With Napoli set to compete in the Champions League and Scotland continuing to build around his leadership, the next chapter promises even more.

Whether he lifts the Ballon d’Or or not, one thing is certain: Scott McTominay’s journey has rewritten expectations. No longer underestimated, no longer doubted — he has carved out a place among football’s elite through grit, growth, and undeniable substance.

From mocked midfield anchor to Ballon d'Or nominee — it’s been a journey few predicted, but one richly deserved.

Benji Kosartiyer
Journalist

Callum Gill

Writer

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