Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay will miss the club’s UEFA Champions League opener against Arsenal after undergoing a successful procedure to treat a heart rhythm condition.
The 29-year-old Scotland international was diagnosed last week with a mild and benign heart arrhythmia, prompting doctors to schedule an ablation procedure at Spire Manchester Hospital.
Napoli confirmed on Tuesday that the procedure was successful but said McTominay would need about two weeks of rest before he can resume training.
“McTominay will observe a rest period of around two weeks before resuming training,” the Italian club said in a statement.
The midfielder had already been ruled out of Napoli’s weekend fixture against Inter Milan, which the Serie A champions won 3-2. His latest setback means he will also miss Wednesday’s Champions League meeting with Arsenal as Napoli begin their league-phase campaign.
McTominay is expected to remain sidelined for Napoli’s upcoming Serie A fixtures against Bologna and Fiorentina. His return to full training is anticipated during the next international break, provided his recovery progresses as planned.
The former Manchester United player has established himself as an important member of Napoli’s squad since moving to Italy from Old Trafford. His absence therefore comes at an inconvenient time for the club as it begins its European campaign.
Napoli face Arsenal on Wednesday in what promises to be a major test at the start of the Champions League season. However, coach and teammates will have to make do without McTominay as he begins his recovery.
The midfielder’s planned ablation was carried out to correct the abnormal heart rhythm, with the club describing the procedure as successful. Napoli will now monitor his recovery before determining when he can safely return to competitive action.
McTominay is expected to use the coming fortnight to rest before beginning the next stage of his rehabilitation. If all goes according to plan, he should return to training during the international break and work towards regaining full fitness.
For now, Napoli will have to cope without one of their key midfielders as they attempt to make a strong start against Arsenal in Europe.
