Scott McTominay is expected to start for Napoli when they face Villarreal in the Champions League, in a sign that the Italian side are готов to make a notable change after their opening defeat to Arsenal.
The midfielder was used for about 30 minutes against Frosinone, but the latest reports on Napoli’s probable lineup suggest he is now set to be involved from the first minute. That would give Napoli a more established presence in midfield as they look to reset their campaign after the disappointment of that Arsenal result.
McTominay in Napoli’s probable XI
The discussion around Napoli’s selection has centred on probable formations rather than a confirmed official team, with the 3-5-2 system featuring in the conversation. In that shape, McTominay’s inclusion would be one of the clearest indicators that Napoli are prepared to trust him with a bigger role on their return to Champions League action.
That matters because this is not just a routine league selection call. Napoli are coming back into the Champions League picture after losing their debut against Arsenal, and the expectation is that the response should be sharper, cleaner and more balanced.
A fresh look after the opening loss
For Napoli, the issue is less about headlines and more about structure. A probable change involving Scott McTominay suggests the staff are looking for a stronger midfield platform, with the team needing to show more control in a game that could shape the direction of the group stage.
There is also intrigue around how Napoli line up around him. With Kevin De Bruyne, Billy Gilmour and Di Lorenzo among the other names linked to the broader conversation around the side, the selection picture points to a team that is still being refined as the competition begins to bite.
What is clear is that McTominay is now firmly in the frame to start. After a limited run against Frosinone, Napoli appear ready to give him the chance to influence Villarreal Vs Napoli from the outset.
