Scott McTominay, Naples' New Maradona

Since being released by Manchester United and moving to Napoli last season, many things have changed for Scott McTominay. One of them is his perspective on tomatoes. The Scottish midfielder has begun to fall in love with the fruit that is often categorized as a vegetable.

"I have never eaten it (tomato) at home (Scotland). It was just like colored water. Here (Naples), it really tastes like tomato. Now I eat it as a snack, it's very fresh," said McTominay to The Athletic in early April 2025.

More than a month after the interview, precisely on Saturday (24/5/2025) WIB, McTominay officially became the hero of the city of Naples. He led "The Little Donkey" to victory as the champion of the Italian League for the 2024-2025 season in front of their supporters at the Diego Maradona Stadium.

The name of the Napoli stadium is inspired by the legendary player of the club from the 1980s, Maradona. In that city, Maradona is regarded as a deity. His name is eternally etched in the hearts of the residents due to his dedication over the course of eight years. Five years after his passing, his mural still stands and has become an icon of the city.

The legendary figure of Maradona seems to have been reborn this season in the form of McTominay. The 28-year-old player has not even completed a full season at Napoli, yet he is already adored by the fans. It is only natural, as McTominay's contributions have been significant in leading the club back to glory.

McTominay concluded the season with the title of the best player in Serie A. He contributed 12 goals and 4 assists. This contribution successfully lifted Napoli, which had been languishing in 10th place last season, including helping to heal the wounds of losing the star duo Victor Osimhen and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

One of the indicators of the strong bond between players and supporters in Napoli is the nicknames. Kvaratskhelia, before moving to Paris Saint-Germain, was nicknamed "Kvaradona." McTominay has received many nicknames, ranging from "McFratm," "Apribottiglie," to "Braveheart."

"McFratm" is a local slang term that means brother. "Apribottiglie" means bottle opener. McTominay frequently takes the lead, including in the championship-deciding match against Cagliari. The nickname "Braveheart" is inspired by Mel Gibson's film about a Scottish warrior.

Due to the immense love from the Napoli public, the face and name of McTominay can be found everywhere. Many fans have willingly tattooed the name or nickname of the player on their bodies. A portrait of McTominay even recently appeared in a temple in downtown Napoli.

I have always wanted to learn the language (Italian). It is important for us to know the surrounding culture.

McTominay did not achieve that for free. Performance on the field is one aspect. However, he also strives to connect with fans through culture, food, and language. A unique story about tomatoes, a fruit popular in the city, can reflect his efforts.

"I have always wanted to learn the language (Italian). It is important for us to understand the surrounding culture. This city is amazing and truly different. We must show that we care about this city, in addition to playing well," said the Scottish national team player.

In the city of Naples, football is almost a spiritual affair. Fans wholeheartedly support their team and players without demanding conditions. McTominay feels that sincerity. Unlike at MU, where he could be praised to the skies for a good performance and then criticized in the next match.

McTominay is very fortunate to have moved from MU, the team he represented for seven seasons since his time in the academy. At Napoli, he encountered a coach of Antonio Conte's caliber who can maximize a player's talent. His latent talent as an attacking midfielder has been immediately unleashed.

Conte freed McTominay to invade the opponent's penalty area. He assisted striker Romelu Lukaku with movements from the midfield. McTominay's physical presence, with a robust build and a height of over 190 centimeters, consistently troubled the opposing defense line.

As a result, McTominay has become the most prolific midfielder in Italy. He is also one of the central players with the highest number of touches in the opponent's penalty area. His productivity in a season at Napoli nearly matches his record at MU, with 19 goals from 178 league matches.

McTominay's new role has actually begun to emerge in the Scotland national team in recent years. This momentum was also utilized by Manchester United under Coach Erik ten Hag last season. However, McTominay has to compete for a position with the creative midfielder Bruno Fernandes.

My main strength is getting into the box and scoring goals.

McTominay's large physique, which tends to appear rigid, led to many misjudgments at the beginning of his career. At MU, he was introduced as a holding midfielder after being promoted from the academy. The player, born in Lancaster, England, was even played as a center-back for the national team.

According to McTominay, he has always felt more comfortable playing an offensive role rather than a defensive one. "My main strength is when I enter the penalty area and score goals. However, that ability was not well recognized at the beginning of my career. I was used as a holding midfielder and a defender, which is not my expertise," he said.

That is the story of "McFratm" who successfully rose to prove himself in Italy, leaving behind a less favorable history in England. He is a highly potential player, just in the wrong place and approach. A bright future awaits this new idol of the Napoli public. (AP/REUTERS)

Born: Lancaster, England, December 8, 1996

Nationality: Scottish

Position: Attacking midfielder

Club:

Manchester United (2017-2024)

Napoli (2024-2025)

Performance:

Italian League Champion (2024-2025)

Italian League Player of the Year (2024-2025)

FA Cup Winners (2023-2024)

English League Cup Champions (2022-2023)