Scott McTominay has become the shining centerpiece of Antonio Conte's Napoli, leading the club to the top of the table to win the league in 2024.

What happened?

He was named Serie A's player of the season and received his first nomination for the prestigious Ballon d'Or, ranking ahead of players like Jude Bellingham and Erling Haaland.

Scott McTominay executed arguably the best season of his life, with a successful transfer to Napoli in 2024 being the first major relocation of his professional career.

Why it matters for Scott McTominay

The magnitude and immediacy of McTominay's breakout cannot be overstated, with him drawing comparisons to Napoli legend Diego Maradona.

He embodies the kind of unapologetic and inextricable obsession with high performance and even higher standards that Sir Alex Ferguson famously demanded of everyone around him.

What comes next?

Scott McTominay finds himself on the eve of leading Scotland into its first World Cup in 28 years, and potentially making history by advancing his nation beyond the group stage for the first time ever.

The significance of the moment is not lost on McTominay, who turns 30 later this year and seems to have gained a broader perspective and appreciation for his career.

GQ asked McTominay about what he personally wants to take away from this World Cup, and he replied that he wants to enjoy every minute.

He does not want to look back when he is 40 or 50 years old and think he was too anxious or worked up, as he has realized that the career is short.

Scott McTominay has impressed coaches with his work rate and unwavering dedication to self-improvement since joining Manchester United at the age of five.

He employs tactics ranging from red light therapy and ice baths to blue light-blocking glasses to keep his phone's screen from messing with his sleep.

Scott McTominay has always prided himself on being extremely fit and wanting to play the game as long as possible, which he thinks is fundamental.

He is a self-proclaimed “recovery geek” who wants to continue to push boundaries and enjoy every minute of his career.

The midfielder's game has evolved, and he has gained a broader perspective and appreciation for his career as he has gotten older.

Scott McTominay's week has been good so far, with him training and getting on with recovery and preparing for the end of the season.