McTominay Reflects on Adaptation to Serie A and Challenges of Modern Football

omidbasir- Since his transfer from Manchester United to Napoli, Scott McTominay has become an integral part of Antonio Conte’s high-intensity football system.

However, the 29-year-old midfielder has expressed challenges in reconciling his aggressive playing style with the increasingly sensitive nature of modern refereeing, particularly within Serie A’s tactical framework.

McTominay believes that the essential “honesty” of a strongly executed tackle is diminishing due to a culture of simulation in football. He conveyed his frustration that the robust training he received as a young player in England seems at odds with the current officiating standards at the elite level.

“I think football is becoming softer and softer. Some decisions are excessively lenient,” McTominay remarked in an interview with Corriere dello Sport. “When I was younger, we were taught to tackle with both honesty and intensity. Nowadays, a mere touch can lead to a yellow card.

“It’s not for me to draw conclusions, but there seems to be an overwhelming focus on sensitivity in officiating.”

Despite his criticisms of refereeing, McTominay has adapted remarkably well to life in Italy. The midfielder was honored as Serie A’s Most Valuable Player during Napoli’s title-winning campaign and has won the admiration of the passionate Neapolitan supporters, who resonate with his “warrior” persona on the field. Off the pitch, he noted that the fervent culture of Southern Italy feels reminiscent of home.

Under Conte’s mentorship, McTominay has experienced a significant tactical evolution. While he often played a defensive role at Old Trafford, he now occupies a more dynamic position that necessitates a deeper understanding of spatial awareness and movement. As a result, he has tallied 23 goals and 10 assists in 70 appearances across all competitions since joining Napoli in 2024.

“At Napoli, I’ve developed both tactically and physically. The tactical nuances in Italy differ greatly from those in the Premier League,” he explained. “I had to quickly adapt and learn how to navigate the pitch, create opportunities in the opponent’s area, and also defend effectively. It has been a remarkable learning journey.

“I take my responsibilities seriously, as this is my profession. Footballers are compensated generously to train and perform, and if one cannot maintain seriousness during those critical hours, they are not fulfilling their role. It’s important to enjoy the game, but that enjoyment is for outside the pitch. On the field, I transform into a different version of myself.”

When asked about Conte’s significant influence on his game, McTominay stated, “Antonio is an exceptional coach—intense and knowledgeable about football. He stands apart from anyone I have worked with before. The sense of uncertainty he brings means you must give your utmost effort or face consequences. The preparation behind closed doors manifests during the matches.”

McTominay expressed his contentment with his new environment, emphasizing, “I am truly happy here, and I consider myself a Napoli player. It occupies my thoughts. The future holds great importance, and I could envision myself staying in Napoli for an extended period. My family is happy, and I am too. As long as they are content, I am also satisfied.”

Furthermore, he addressed the criticism he faced before achieving prominence in Italy, stating, “Criticism is part of football, and I have always been aware of it; it has never offended me. However, it does not impact how I play or perceive matches. While public opinion is significant, the coach’s perspective is what truly matters: if I am performing in line with his expectations, then all is well.”

Currently, McTominay remains focused on delivering his best for Napoli. Despite dealing with a minor tendon issue, he is determined to secure his place in the starting lineup as the Partenopei aim to sustain their Scudetto title aspirations.

Napoli presently holds third place in the Serie A standings with 50 points from 25 matches, trailing second-placed AC Milan by four points and leaders Inter by 11 points. Their next challenge comes against Atalanta in Bergamo on Sunday.

“We must continue to work diligently and avoid excessive talk about the championship. Let’s take one match at a time and see how it unfolds,” he advised.

“I remain uncertain about my participation on Sunday. I am managing a tendon injury, which complicates matters. I’m giving everything to ensure I’m ready. As a player, it’s challenging to arrive at the training facility and be unable to train with teammates. I am eager to play, but I must be certain of my physical condition.”