While managing Man Utd, Mourinho promoted McTominay from the youth academy to the first team in 2017. Less than one year later, he warned England about the risk of losing a quality player and advised Scotland's representatives to contact McTominay if they wished to secure him.

McTominay was born in England but qualified to play for Scotland through his bloodline. His father came from Helensburgh.

Coach Mourinho (right) promoted McTominay to Man Utd's first team in 2017. Photo: PA

Responding to Mourinho's signal, then-Scotland coach Alex McLeish immediately traveled to Manchester. His trip was almost canceled by the "Beast from the East" storm, but he managed to arrive at his hotel by 3 am. McLeish later met Mourinho at 12 pm for a meal and conversation, before connecting with McTominay.

"McTominay was keen to play for Scotland, but still needed significant persuasion," McLeish recounted to the Telegraph on 20/11. "He was very appreciative of my visit. It was one of the most valuable trips I have ever made. All Scottish people should thank Mourinho."

Following that meeting nearly eight years ago, the impact was profound. McTominay has since played 66 matches, scoring 14 goals and helping Scotland qualify for Euro 2021, 2024, and World Cup 2026. In the decisive European qualifier on 18/11, the 28-year-old midfielder scored the opening goal with a volley against Denmark, leading Scotland to a 4-2 victory and securing their World Cup spot after a 28-year absence.

Beyond his national team success, McTominay has emerged as one of Europe's top players. Since his departure from Man Utd in summer 2024, he has undergone a remarkable transformation, earning the Serie A Player of the Season award and guiding Napoli to a championship title.

McTominay's goal-scoring prowess from midfield is a key strength. In addition to his 14 goals in 66 appearances for Scotland, he has scored 17 goals in 50 matches for Napoli and 29 goals in 255 games for Man Utd. "He was a striker during his time in the Man Utd academy, but his goal tally remains impressive," McLeish added. "He has strong finishing skills, tactical awareness, and excellent off-the-ball movement."

McTominay's volley opened the scoring in Scotland's 4-2 victory over Denmark in the World Cup qualifier on 18/11. Photo: SE

Some experts suggest that had McTominay chosen to play for England, his career achievements might have been greater. In 2021 and 2024, while Scotland faced group stage exits, England reached the Euro finals both times. The "Three Lions" also advanced to the quarter-finals of the 2022 World Cup and are considered strong contenders for the 2026 World Cup title.

The level of competition within the England squad, however, is significantly higher than in Scotland. Coach Thomas Tuchel once lamented having to choose only three midfielders from a pool including Jude Bellingham, Declan Rice, Jordan Henderson, Morgan Rogers, and Adam Wharton, in addition to Morgan Gibbs-White, Elliot Anderson, Curtis Jones, and Conor Gallagher.

Thanh Quy (according to Telegraph)