Scott McTominay will undergo heart surgery after Napoli diagnosed the Scotland international with a mild benign arrhythmia, ruling him out for around six weeks.
Napoli confirmed the diagnosis on Tuesday, saying the 29-year-old has a heart rhythm disorder that can cause the heart to beat too quickly, too slowly or irregularly.
The midfielder will have an operation soon and should return to Serie A action after the next international break.
McTominay started Napoli’s first two league matches of the season in late August. His absence will now leave the Italian champions without one of their most influential midfielders during a demanding spell of the campaign.
He will miss at least three Serie A matches, including Saturday’s meeting with Inter Milan. Napoli will also face Arsenal in their Champions League opener on September 9 without the Scotland international.
McTominay has become a key figure for Napoli since moving to Italy from Manchester United. His performances last season earned him the Serie A Player of the Year award as Napoli secured the league title.
His influence grew further as he added goals and physicality to Napoli’s midfield. The Scotland international also established himself as one of the side’s most reliable players under manager Antonio Conte.
The timing of the diagnosis creates a significant problem for Napoli. The club will now need to manage a run of domestic and European fixtures without a player who has played a central role in their recent success.
McTominay’s absence will also affect Scotland, although his expected recovery timeline should give him a chance to return during the autumn international schedule.
For Napoli, the immediate challenge starts against Inter on Saturday before Arsenal arrive in Naples four days later for the Champions League.
