Scott McTominay Reveals Emergency Heart Treatment Two Days Before Scotland’s World Cup Opener

Scotland midfielder Scott McTominay has revealed that he underwent emergency treatment for an irregular heartbeat just two days before his country’s opening match against Haiti at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The Napoli star disclosed that he received treatment to regulate his heart rhythm shortly before Scotland secured a 1-0 victory over Haiti in Massachusetts.

McTominay, 29, recently underwent an ablation procedure in Manchester. The minimally invasive treatment is used to correct abnormal heart rhythms.

Speaking to BBC Sport on Tuesday, the former Manchester United midfielder said the medical emergency came as a shock after months of preparation for the tournament.

“I had to go and get the shock on my heart. It 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 said.

Despite the unexpected development, McTominay said he had to accept the situation and remain focused on his football responsibilities. He admitted that being in a hospital bed shortly before Scotland’s opening fixture was far from ideal.

“You have to get on with it, that’s the cards that you’re dealt in football. Sometimes, things don’t go your way,” he added.

The midfielder, who also played the full 90 minutes in Scotland’s defeats to Morocco and Brazil, said he was fully fit but found the experience of undergoing medical treatment two days before the tournament opener unsettling.

“I was 100 per cent fit, but obviously, whenever you’re sat in a hospital bed two days before the first game of the World Cup about to get put to sleep, it’s not ideal, is it?” he said.

McTominay praised Napoli and the medical team that supported him during his recovery, describing his recent procedure in Manchester as successful. He also said he was feeling much better and believed the treatment had been necessary.

“I’m good. 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 said.

He acknowledged that reports about his heart condition had caused concern among relatives and friends, but explained that the procedure went well and was relatively straightforward.

McTominay said his main priority was returning to football, improving his performances and reaching an even higher level. He has since resumed playing for Napoli in domestic and UEFA Champions League competitions after missing Scotland’s opening four Nations League fixtures.

The 29-year-old has now returned to Scotland’s squad ahead of their Nations League matches against North Macedonia on Friday and Switzerland on Monday. He also stressed that proper recovery, nutrition, sleep and discipline remain essential to maintaining his performance throughout his career.