Napoli: McTominay crowned in Serie A, England left wondering | OneFootball

In the Premier League, they are still struggling to comprehend the transformation of Scott McTominay. From Manchester, he is watched with incredulity, while in Italy the Scottish midfielder is celebrated as the best footballer in Serie A at the 2025 Gran Galà del Calcio AIC.

Naples, McTominay King of Napoli: In England they wonder as Serie A crowns him

The Daily Mail devotes ample space to the Milanese evening, describing not only the technical consecration of the Napoli player, but also the extraordinary speed with which he and his partner, model Cam Reading, have integrated into Neapolitan life.

The British newspaper recalls how the former Manchester United player has now joined an elite club made up of iconic figures in world football: “Cristiano Ronaldo, Zinedine Zidane, Kaká, Andrea Pirlo.” To highlight the exceptional nature of the moment, the historical fact: McTominay is the first Scot to receive this recognition, which came just a year after his transfer to Napoli for £25 million.

The story of the Gran Galà: elegance, applause, and a message of love to Naples

For the ceremony, McTominay chose a tailored suit while Cam Reading walked the red carpet in a long black dress, much appreciated by insiders. The evening, marked by applause and scenic lighting, also gave voice to the deep bond the player has developed with the city.

During his acceptance speech, McTominay said: “It’s incredible to be here. Thanks to the team, the staff, and my teammates. My bond with Naples is special, there are so many special places here.”

The ceremony also honored some of the season’s protagonists: Francesco Pio Esposito, named Italian Golden Boy, and Antonio Conte, voted best coach.

How the McTominay phenomenon was born: from workhorse midfielder to technical leader

The Daily Mail dedicates an in-depth look at the tactical and psychological transformation of the class of 1996. Arriving in Italy without excessive expectations, McTominay became, in just a few months, a complete midfielder, able to combine physicality, tactical discipline, and a surprising offensive contribution.

Last season, he finished with 12 goals and 6 assists, numbers worthy of a pure attacking midfielder, which played a decisive role in the title race. The Italian press has called him the “new leader of Napoli” and “idol of the fans.”

The English tabloid also highlights his international growth: the acrobatic goal against Denmark, decisive for Scotland’s qualification for the World Cup, is described as “proof that every ball touched by McTominay seems to turn into gold.”

After 255 matches and 29 goals with Manchester United, his career has taken a new and unexpected direction. And apparently, a brighter one.

An Italian life: Cam Reading and the charm of Campania

The picture of success would not be complete without the personal dimension. The Daily Mail emphasizes how family serenity is playing a fundamental role in the player’s performance.

Cam Reading has shared images on social media of weekends along the Amalfi Coast, writing that she has “fallen in love with Italy.” A simple statement, but one that tells of the natural way the couple has integrated into the cultural and scenic fabric of Campania.

The current season: McTominay as Napoli’s talisman

The start of the new season confirms the trend: already five goals and two assists in the opening matches, with Conte’s Napoli leading the table alongside Milan, closely followed by Roma and Inter.

In Naples, the conviction is growing that McTominay has become more than just a reinforcement: he is a player capable of shifting the balance, an emotional and technical reference point around which to build the team’s new ambitions.

Fans hope that this new “Scottish talisman” can lead the group towards another historic title run. And from England, they continue to watch, trying to understand how a player let go almost in silence has become one of the brightest stars in European football.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇮🇹 here.