Scott McTominay Shines in Ballon d’Or Rankings After Napoli Triumph

Scott McTominay has defied expectations in the 2025 Ballon d’Or standings, outpacing global superstars after a title-winning season with Napoli. The former Manchester United midfielder, now a key figure at Napoli, finished 18th in the coveted rankings, coming in ahead of celebrated names such as Declan Rice, Erling Haaland, and Jude Bellingham. His remarkable campaign in Serie A has captured the attention of football fans and pundits alike, redefining his legacy on the European stage.

Scott McTominay’s Stellar Season with Napoli

Scott McTominay arrived at Napoli with determination and adapted seamlessly to Italian football, quickly establishing himself as an irreplaceable part of the squad. Throughout the 2024–25 Serie A season, McTominay netted 12 crucial goals from midfield, providing both attacking impetus and defensive stability. His performances were instrumental in Napoli’s successful Scudetto charge, with the club securing its first league title since the Diego Maradona era.

Outranking Football’s Elite in Ballon d’Or Voting

In the fiercely competitive Ballon d’Or race, McTominay’s 18th-place finish is a tribute to his influence and consistency. He managed to surpass Arsenal’s midfield powerhouse Declan Rice, Manchester City’s prolific striker Erling Haaland, and Real Madrid’s dynamic Jude Bellingham. These are players widely regarded as among the world’s best, making McTominay’s achievement even more impressive.

Impact Beyond the Stat Sheet

While McTominay’s goal tally drew headlines, his leadership and versatility stood out just as much. He often dictated the tempo with his passing and showed resilience in high-pressure moments, becoming a fan favorite in Naples. His tactical awareness allowed Napoli manager Luciano Spalletti to deploy him in various roles, maximizing the team’s potential.

Scott McTominay’s Journey: From Manchester to Naples

McTominay’s development from a promising talent at Manchester United to a pivotal player for Napoli is a testament to his work ethic and adaptability. At United, he was valued for his energy and reliability but often operated in the shadow of more glamorous teammates. The move to Serie A offered McTominay a chance to become a more influential figure—and he seized it, leading Napoli’s midfield and guiding them to historic glory.

Ballon d’Or Recognition Validates McTominay’s Rise

The Ballon d’Or is the ultimate individual honor in football, and McTominay’s inclusion among the top 20 underlines the respect he’s earned across Europe. For a player whose role is often undervalued, being recognized ahead of international stars signifies a shift in how the football world perceives midfielders who combine hard work with technical quality.

The Road Ahead for McTominay and Napoli

With Napoli now established as a powerhouse in Serie A and competing fiercely in European competitions, McTominay’s role will only grow in importance. Fans are eager to see if he can build on his breakthrough season and continue to challenge Europe’s elite both individually and as part of a rejuvenated Napoli side.

Opinion: McTominay’s Success Is a Win for Every Unsung Midfielder

Scott McTominay’s Ballon d’Or rise is a beacon for all hard-working midfielders whose contributions often go under the radar. His journey demonstrates that dedication, adaptability, and professionalism can ultimately earn global recognition—even against the flashiest attackers and most celebrated stars. For more news and in-depth coverage of the beautiful game, visit for more news.