Napoli are without Scott McTominay for Wednesday’s Champions League opener against Arsenal as the former Manchester United player has undergone heart surgery.
McTominay underwent successful ablation surgery in Manchester on Tuesday after being diagnosed with a mild benign arrhythmia. Napoli said the Scotland international will rest for two weeks before resuming training and is expected back after the international break.
The 29-year-old, who was substituted against Como after the issue was detected, will also miss Scotland’s first four matches under new coach Sebastien Pocognoli.
“On Tuesday morning, Scott McTominay underwent an ablation procedure at Spire Manchester Hospital. The operation was a complete success,” Napoli said.
His absence, alongside Anguissa’s physical problem, leaves Massimiliano Allegri with only four midfield options, but he will retain his preferred 4-3-3 formation.
“There will not be a change of system, absolutely not. I’ve only got four midfielders, so three of them will start tomorrow,” Allegri said.
Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour, Stanislav Lobotka and Antonio Vergara are competing for the three places.
Napoli have also endured a difficult start to Allegri’s reign after title-winning mentor Antonio Conte left the club by mutual consent after two seasons at the helm.
So far this campaign under Allegri Napoli have beaten Genoa but then lost to Como and Inter Milan. However, Allegri believes the Champions League provides an ideal opportunity to reset.
“Tomorrow is a different competition from Serie A, a sort of mini-league where we need 12 points to secure qualification for the next round,” he said.
“Europe gives you motivation and adrenaline. We’ll be playing against the best, and we need to play a game of great technique.”
Napoli won Serie A last season but finished 30th in the Champions League league phase. McTominay was central to that title success, earning the Serie A Player of the Season award.
He remains under contract until 2028, with sporting director Giovanni Manna confirming discussions over an extension are continuing.
“Scott said he doesn’t know if he’ll renew at this time,” Manna said. “He has a two-year contract, we want to do it, and he wants to do it, too. It’s not always easy to make things coincide, but we’re trying.”
Allegri expects a stern test from Arsenal, who reached last season’s Champions League final.
“Arteta has done well to get his defence organised and they concede very few goals,” he said.
