Napoli midfielder Scott McTominay has voiced concerns over a perceived softening of standards in modern football, suggesting referees are too quick to award fouls and cautions for minimal contact. The Scottish international’s comments, made to Corriere dello Sport, approach after a controversial officiating decision in the recent Inter-Juventus match and amidst a challenging season for the defending Serie A champions.
McTominay referenced a specific incident involving Juventus defender Pierre Kalulu, who received a second yellow card for a challenge on Inter’s Alessandro Bastoni, a decision that sparked debate due to the apparent exaggeration of contact by Bastoni. “I think football is becoming soft. some decisions are just too lenient,” McTominay stated. “I wasn’t accustomed to these feelings when I was a kid, when we were taught to tackle fairly and with strength. Now, even the slightest of contact can lead to a yellow card. It’s not up to me to draw conclusions, but I experience there’s too much attention and excessive sensitivity.”
The former Manchester United player’s assessment arrives as Napoli navigate a difficult campaign, currently sitting third in the Serie A table. The club has faced significant injury problems, with key players including Romelu Lukaku, Kevin De Bruyne, Frank Zambo Anguissa, and David Neres sidelined for extended periods. McTominay himself recently suffered a tendon injury in a match against Genoa, sidelining him for an unspecified period.
Despite the setbacks, McTominay expressed optimism about a potential return to action in Napoli’s upcoming match against Atalanta, acknowledging the require for careful management of his injury. He also praised the influence of manager Antonio Conte, describing him as a “great coach, very strong, passionate and knows football extremely well.” McTominay noted Conte’s unique approach, stating, “The sense of uncertainty he instils; with him, you have to give your best, or you’ve got a problem.”
McTominay acknowledged the difficulties presented by the team’s injury crisis, stating, “In moments of difficulty, with many injuries, it’s difficult for the coach and the staff to locate the right balance and the best way to play.” He also conceded that the team’s struggles were compounded by misfortune, adding, “We’ve been unlucky, but that’s no excuse. It’s a serious explanation and must be accepted.”
The midfielder highlighted the team’s dedication and work ethic, attributing last season’s Serie A title and Supercup victory to their rigorous training regime. “We train a lot and work hard. That explains last season’s success, winning the league and the Supercup. The work you do behind closed doors shows in matches,” he said. “The workload and intensity change, but the players follow the instructions and have to give their best every day.”
