Serie A

IT is questionable why any Scotsman would venture outside in 27 degrees of searing Italian sunshine.Proceeding to slug neat whisky from a bottle while sitting atop a roofless bus the day before meeting the Pope represents a whole new level of judgement.Scott McTominay lifts the Serie A trophyCredit: GettyMcTominay swigs whisky during the celebrationsCredit: X @mctominay_HQThe Scotland star has been loving the celebrationsCredit: XNapoli’s new hero meets the PopeCredit: AlamyScott McTominay’s hands were probably shaking with more than nerves as he stood to meet Leo XIV while nursing a biblical hangover.But as a young man with the world at his feet and a Serie A winner’s medal round his neck, Scottish football’s new Messiah can do whatever he likes.And besides, daft decisions have been following him around for some time.Not least the one by his former club Manchester United, who thought it great business to flog him to Napoli for £25million last summer, having rejected a bid of £30m from West Ham because it was not enough.READ MORE MAN UTD NEWSNot exactly Dragon’s Den or The Apprentice.Presumably, it was considered better to get McTominay out of the way and packed off to a foreign league rather than sell to a direct rival.Ninety-nine years out of 100, West Ham rival Manchester United in name only.It’s only because Ruben Amorim’s team has been so spectacularly bad this season in McTominay’s absence that they can see the Hammers from across the lower reaches of the Premier League table.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKMcTominay played his final match for Man Utd last AugustCredit: GettyThe Scotland international took on an exciting new challenge in NaplesCredit: GettyHe was long gone before Ruben Amorim turned up at Old Trafford to try to dig United out of the mess left behind by his  predecessor Erik ten Hag.A towering presence on the  pitch, McTominay was viewed as a symbol of how far the club had fallen from the rose-tinted days when everyone who wore the shirt was a legend.Scott McTominay dances with old fan while puffing on cigarette as never-ending Napoli title party continuesDespite being 6ft 3in, McTominay could never look Paul Scholes, Roy Keane, Paul Ince or Bryan Robson in the eye.Maybe not, but he has scored more goals this term than Rasmus Hojlund —  United’s £72m striker.He also scored on the final day for Napoli, who won the Scudetto by a solitary point.McTominay’s sale was dressed up as a financial necessity to keep the bean counters at the Premier League off United’s backs.Yet the £42m splashed out on his replacement Manuel Ugarte doesn’t look like the best trade off.The Uruguayan amassed 15 bookings in his debut campaign and two goals, at least repaying some of his transfer fee in club fines.But if you want a heartfelt verdict on whether it was a wise move letting McTominay slip away, just ask former United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.He described the call to sell him as ‘beyond me’ — which for a Norwegian nice guy equates to verbal GBH.McTominay suffered the curse of the academy kid. Fans and bosses alike expected too much from him.There were doubts about his all-round game, which seemed surprising because he always looked the part. Though born in Lancaster and raised in United’s academy, there is a ‘Scottishness’ about him.The firm brow, deep-set eyes and angular jawline makes for a formidable face when he sports that scary buzz cut.The look of someone who can handle himself.Guzzling warm scotch on a hot day and chain- smoking only adds to McTominay’s aura, now backed up by a serious achievement on the pitch.His colourful behaviour on the trophy parade after Napoli’s title triumph might not be the most sophisticated advert for modern football. But it can’t all be about broccoli and cryo-chambers can it?Read More on The SunMcTominay was voted Serie A’s MVP.Some in football know the price of everything and the value of nothing.McTominay poses with girlfriend Cam Reading and the Serie A trophyMcTominay is a hero with the Napoli supportersCredit: ReutersMcTominay plays for Napoli alongside Scotland pal Billy GilmourCredit: Shutterstock EditorialMcTominay’s move to Naples has been a resounding successCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More

AC MILAN have sacked manager Sergio Conceicao.The Serie A giants confirmed the news by posting a 25-second video.Sergio Conceicao has been sacked as AC Milan bossAC Milan posted a 25-second clip of Conceicao when confirming his sackingThe clip features Conceicao prowling along the touchline, as well as lifting the Supercoppa Italiana.In a brief statement, the Serie A giants confirmed: “AC Milan and Sergio Conceiçao will not continue their journey together next season.”The Club would like to thank Sergio and his staff for their commitment, professionalism and dedication shown during their time leading the First Team over the past few months.”The AC Milan family parts with the coach who won the 50th trophy in the Club’s history, wishing him the best for the future.”READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWSConceicao was appointed on December 30 following Paulo Fonseca’s dismissal.Just days later the former Porto boss guided AC Milan to Supercoppa glory.The Portuguese failed to inspire the Italian giants in Serie A, however, finishing a lowly eighth.Conceicao did reach the Coppa Italia final, beating Roma and rivals Inter along the way.Most read in FootballBEST ONLINE CASINOS – TOP SITES IN THE UKConceicao, 50, lifted the Supercoppa Italiana in JanuaryCredit: GettyBut Milan slumped to a 1-0 defeat to Bologna in the final, effectively sealing Conceicao’s fate.Reports in Italy claim that Massimiliano Allegri will return to San Siro as Conceicao’s replacement.AC Milan drop major hint over Kyle Walker’s future after Man City star’s loan transferAllegri, 57, was in charge of AC Milan between 2010 and 2014.Earlier today, transfer expert Fabrizio Romano reported that the Italian had agreed to rejoin his former club.Allegri won the Serie A title with Milan in the 2010-11 season.The experienced boss added a further five successes as Juventus boss.He has been out of work since leaving Juve at the end of the 2023-24 season.Massimiliano Allegri is set to return to AC MilanCredit: Getty More

THE Napoli title party looks like it’s never going to end.And nobody seems to have been enjoying every second of it more than Scott McTominay!Headline: Scott McTominay dances with old fan while puffing on cigarette as never-ending Napoli title party continues,Credit: XNapoli secured their fourth Serie A crown on Friday night.Scotland star McTominay, as he has been all season long, was at the centre of the success with a stunning acrobatic effort breaking the deadlock against Cagliari.A 2-0 win saw Gli Azzurri win the Scudetto and McTominay was visibly emotional after the biggest achievement of his career to date.McTominay, 28, has been the best player in Italy this season after his £25million move from Manchester United.READ MORE ON McTOMINAYWith 12 goals from midfield, he captured the hearts of the Napoli fans who absolutely idolise him.Fans have been paying homage to McTominay in all kinds of ways, ranging from pizzas to tattoos while an incredible shrine in his honour now has pride of place in Naples city centre.And the Hampden hero has certainly been giving the love back in the wake of his team’s stunning title triumph.He’s been front and centre of Napoli’s fervent celebrations.Most read in FootballMcTominay and Scotland teammate Billy Gilmour were spotted leading wild celebratory scenes in a restaurant KITCHEN over the weekend.There was also an amusing moment during Napoli’s open top bus parade when a fan threw a bottle of WHISKY up to the top deck for McTominay.Moment Scott McTominay drinks from whisky bottle on open top bus parade NapoliHe was only too happy to unscrew the cap and take a rather large swig out of the Famous Grouse bottle before handing it back.But the celebrations certainly haven’t ended there.Another brilliant video has emerged of McTominay on social media.The midfielder – who can be seen puffing a cigarette – has peen spotted DANCING with an elderly fan.Scott McTominay’s careerBorn in Lancaster on December 8, 1996Joined the Manchester United youth system aged five and signed his first professional contract in 2013Made his Premier League debut against Arsenal in May 2017McTominay went on to win Carabao Cup and FA Cup with Man UtdMade 255 appearances and scored 29 goals for the Red DevilsMcTominay joined Napoli in August for £25.7millionBorn in England, he qualified for Scotland through his dad who’s from HelensburghMcTominay was called-up by Scotland in March 2018 and has gone on to become a huge Hampden favouriteHe was part of the squad at Euro 2020 and Euro 2024He won his 50th cap while playing against Germany at Euro 2024McTominay has scored some huge goals for Scotland, including an injury-time winner against Israel and his famous double in the 2-0 win over Spain in GlasgowMcTominay is absolutely loving the moment too, with a beaming smile and laughter.The old man looked to be thoroughly enjoying himself too, while the star’s girlfriend Cam watched on with a smile on her face.After all the wild celebrations, the Napoli players headed to the Vatican to meet Pope Leo XVI.Read More on The SunMcTominay was seen shaking hands with the recently appointed Pontiff.Scott McTominay meets Pope Leo XVICredit: EPAHe scored as Napoli clinched the titleCredit: ReutersMcTominay with girlfriend Cam ReadingCredit: INSTAGRAMKeep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

FORMER Aston Villa star Nicolo Zaniolo has been accused of STRIKING two Roma youngsters after their match with Fiorentina.Zaniolo, who is on loan at Fiorentina from Galatasaray, is said to have visited Roma’s dressing room after the semi-final of the Primavera youth league title play-off, which La Viola won 2-1.Fiorentina ace Nicolo Zaniolo has been accused of striking two Roma youth players after a play-off matchCredit: SHUTTERSTOCKThe former Aston Villa loanee has denied the allegationCredit: PAAnd Roma claim their former midfielder struck two of their youth team players after he “‘engaged in provocative behaviour”.The Serie A big boys said in a statement: “AS Roma announces that, following today’s match, a regrettable incident occurred involving player Nicolo Zaniolo.”According to initial reconstructions, the player allegedly entered the Primavera team’s dressing room after the match and engaged in provocative behaviour towards some of the Giallorossi youth players.”During the confrontation, two players from the Primavera squad were reportedly physically struck.READ MORE FOOTBALL NEWS”AS Roma cannot but firmly condemn any form of aggressive conduct or behaviour that does not align with the values of sport.”Italy international Zaniolo, who made 39 appearances for Aston Villa during a 2023/24 loan spell at Villa Park, has denied Roma’s accounts of the incident.The former Giallorossi star claims he was insulted after visiting his old dressing room and left after receiving a torrent of verbal abuse.He said: “At the end of the match, I went into the locker room to congratulate the Fiorentina lads, then passed through the Roma room to salute and compliment them on their season.Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSNicolo Zaniolo spent the 2023/24 season on loan with Aston Villa and scored three goals in 39 appearances for the VillansCredit: GETTY”However, at a certain point, they started to insult me.”So at that stage, to avoid the situation degenerating, I preferred to simply leave.”Emi Martinez in tears as he waves goodbye to fans after Aston Villa’s final home gameZaniolo added another update today on Instagram, in which he apologised for his behaviour but denied being “physically aggressive”.In a statement he wrote: “I went there with the only intention of giving a positive message… Unfortunately, I was verbally provoked by a boy and, mistakenly, I lost my temper.”However, I would like to point out that the facts are far removed from what has been reconstructed and that on my part, apart from a verbal argument, there was no physically aggressive behaviour.”I want to apologise from the bottom of my heart for what happened yesterday. I know I reacted badly and I take responsibility for it.”Zaniolo joined Roma in the summer of 2018 from Inter Milan for a fee in the region of £4million.He’d spend four and a half seasons at the Stadio Olimpico – a stint which was blighted by injury – before a £13.5m move to Galatasaray in February 2023.Read More on The SunHe’d join Villa on loan six months later and would score three goals in his 39 appearances for the Brummie club.He started the 2024/25 season on loan at Atalanta but would end the campaign with Fiorentina, for whom he made 13 appearances in all competitions. More

THIS is the moment jubilant Napoli fans presented star midfielder Scott McTominay with a taste of home.Ecstatic supporters wildly celebrated and threw gifts up to acknowledge their heroes after they clinched the title following a 2-0 win over Cagliari on Friday night.Scott McTominay drinking whisky on open top bus parade in NaplesCredit: X @mctominay_HQScott McTominay and Billy Gilmour Napoli celebrate the victoryCredit: GettyScott McTominay’s stunning scissor kick against CagliariCredit: AFPAnd they had a touching moment for Scotland international Scott McTominay, when a video appeared to show him drinking from a bottle of whisky – apparently thrown up by one of the fans.McTominay is wearing a baseball cap and sunglasses and can be seen at the top of the bus with the rest of his team-mates. He delights punters below by raising the bottle and taking a swig before passing it back to fans, with the supporters chanting ‘Scott, Scott, Scott’. The 28-year-old has lit up Serie A, grabbing 12 goals including a stunning scissor kick against Cagliari on Friday.And after the sealing the title, McTominay capped off a remarkable a first season in Italy by being named the league’s Most Valuable Player.International team-mate Billy Gilmour also started in the title-winning victory on Friday and has played an important role in Napoli’s success.Meanwhile, former Rangers defender Lorenzo Amoruso has revealed what he believes has helped lead to McTominay flourishing at the Partenopei.Amoruso, who played more than 150 times for the Gers after signing from Fiorentina in a £4million deal in 1997, is now a football commentator in Italy.Most read in FootballHe was the skipper at Ibrox and won three league titles, three Scottish Cup and three Scottish League Cups during his six-year spell at Ibrox.The 53-year-old was full of praise for the former Manchester United midfielder, but believes the departure of one of Napoli’s top stars gave him the freedom to play.Georgian ace Khvicha Kvaratskhelia left Naples in January and joined Paris Saint-Germain after failing to agree a contract extension.Amoruso told Radio Goal on Kiss Kiss Napoli: “McTominay’s season rating cannot go below 8.’Only thing not erupting is Mount Vesuvius’ – Fans can’t believe how Napoli have been celebrating Serie A title”McTominay’s most important part came when Kvaratskhelia was sold. “I don’t know if that area of ​​the pitch would have been McTominay’s with the Georgian.”After Kvaratskhelia’s departure, the Scotsman found more space, the Georgian closed his runs. Every cloud has a silver lining.”Amoruso believes the development in McTominay is largely down to the influence of manager Antonio Conte who could leave the club according to reports in Italy. He added: “Those who don’t follow Napoli only see McTominay’s 12 goals, but the player must be evaluated in the possession phase, in the non-possession phase and in the defensive phase. “At the beginning, McTominay didn’t often score, but he was always there in the penalty area, he always arrived at the right time. “Let’s not forget that McTominay was criticised at Manchester United, it wasn’t easy for him to arrive in Italy and do so well. Read More on The Sun”Conte worked hard on him.”Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page More

ANTONIO CONTE is set to leave Napoli this summer despite guiding the club to the Serie A title this season, according to reports.Conte, 55, masterminded Napoli’s fourth ever Scudetto as they pipped Inter Milan to the title by a point on the final day of the season.Antonio Conte is set to leave Napoli despite leading the club to the Serie A titleCredit: GettyThe Italian tactician, who only joined the club last summer, is under contract with the Napoli until 2027.But it now seems like he is going to part ways with the champions two years prematurely.According to Gianluca Di Marzio, Conte is set for talks with the Napoli hierarchy but there is a feeling that the meeting will end in his departure.Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis is thought to be keen on securing European success in the Champions League next season and Conte may not be the man to stick around and lead the club.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLInstead, De Laurentiis has reportedly already lined up a preferred replacement for the former Chelsea and Tottenham boss.It’s claimed that the Napoli chief would like to bring in Massimiliano Allegri to take over should Conte leave.Reports have suggested that Conte and De Laurentiis have had a fractured relationship in recent months after disagreements over player recruitment plans and training facilities.It was one of Conte’s summer signings that made the difference as Napoli won the title in dramatic fashion on Friday.Most read in FootballScott McTominay scored a super scissor kick as Napoli won Serie ACredit: Shutterstock EditorialMcTominay was named Serie A Player of the Season for his contributions over the campaignCredit: GettyCASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO BONUSES FROM £10 DEPOSITSScott McTominay, who arrived in a £25m deal from Man Utd in the summer, scored a breathtaking scissor kick to put Napoli a goal ahead against Cagliari.While Romelu Lukaku bagged a second to put Napoli out of sight and finish off the 2-0 victory.Wild scenes in Naples as fans celebrate after Scott McTominay wins Serie A for NapoliAnd midfielder McTominay has been named Serie A Player of the Year thanks to his mammoth contribution across the title-winning campaign.He scored 12 goals and has been ever-present this year with 34 league appearances.Despite reports of not seeing eye-to-eye and claims that Conte will be leaving, De Laurentiis left the door open for the the manager to stay put next term.Asked by DAZN about Conte’s future after the title success, the 75-year-old said: “Never say never.”Coaches have their own character that must be respected and in my view you should never oblige them under iron-clad contracts. Napoli is Napoli, it deserves respect. “If he wants to put himself at the disposal of the club the way he has done this season, then we say welcome, we are ready to follow him like a great leader.”Next year, I would be very pleased if he made his mark in the Champions League, which since they modified the format has become even more important.”Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has left the door open for Conte to stayCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More

THOUSANDS partied in the streets and fireworks were let off across the city as Napoli clinched Serie A glory.Antonio Conte’s side beat Cagliari 2-0 at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona last night to pip Inter Milan to the title.Naples erupted as the club won their fourth ScudettoCredit: SplashThousands lined the streets as the city partied all nightCredit: Shutterstock EditorialFans watched on big screens and celebrated in Piazza del PlebiscitoCredit: Shutterstock EditorialFireworks and flares lit up the skyCredit: Shutterstock EditorialAntonio Conte was thrown into the air by his playersCredit: GettyScott McTominay is a fans’ favouriteCredit: GettyNapoli celebrated the club’s fourth Scudetto in style as wild festivities carried on until the following morning.The stunning atmosphere began hours before kick-off as supporters without a match ticket rushed to the city’s main square Piazza del Plebiscito to watch the game on big screens.Incredible videos showed thousands filling the huge square within minutes of it opening as others gathered outside the stadium.Fireworks were lit across Naples when Scott McTominay scored an outrageous bicycle kick to put them 1-0 up.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLSmoke from flares engulfed the Maradona Stadium and the pitch could barely be seen on TV.Romelu Lukaku then sealed the title with a wonderful solo goal as the party truly started.Even more fireworks and flares were let off, as amazing footage taken from the mountains overlooking Naples showed the place erupting.As far as the eye could see there were lights vibrantly flashing as the football-obsessed city rejoiced. Most read in FootballJOIN SUN VEGAS: GET £50 BONUSFireworks were set off for Napoli in MilanCredit: Shutterstock EditorialHundreds partied in other cities across ItalyCredit: Shutterstock EditorialFans were left stunned by the footage, with one saying: “Only thing not erupting is Mount Vesuvius.”Another added: “Best fans in Italy and home of the most iconic football player in history. Diego would be proud.”Wild scenes in Naples as fans celebrate after Scott McTominay wins Serie A for NapoliA third marvelled: “Scenes. They know how to celebrate.”The joy stretched as far as Milan as hundreds of Neapolitans emerged in front of the Duomo Cathedral late last night.At the final whistle, Napoli players threw Conte into the air as he and club president Aurelio De Laurentiis then shared an emotional hug and were close to tears.Fans were left in anticipation though as the manager was forced to do his post-match press conference before the trophy lift.But the Napoli squad gatecrashed the interview and soaked him in champagne.Every member of the team then dyed their hair blue and a guard of honour from the tunnel to the podium was formed by members of the backroom staff.Players re-appeared from the dressing room one-by-one when their name was called and all were serenaded by the crowd.Serie A player of the season McTominay got one of the biggest receptions, completing a remarkable turnaround since leaving Manchester United last summer.The Neapolitan party carried on long into the night as hundreds of banners with the number four were hung above the iconic narrow streets in the Quartieri Spagnoli neighbourhood. Read More on The SunMcTominay has been called the “darling of Napoli” after being one of the team’s main men en route to Serie A glory.There are Maradona-style shrines, flags and kits everywhere you look in the city based around the Scottish midfielder signed for just £25million a year ago.Conte’s press conference was ambushed by the jubilant playersIncredible footage showed the whole of the city letting off fireworksCredit: X formerly Twitter / @AzatAzadi3444Everything but Mount Vesuvius was lit upCredit: X formerly Twitter / @AzatAzadi3444Napoli won it with a last day victory over CagliariCredit: Shutterstock EditorialThousands rejoiced across NaplesCredit: Shutterstock Editorial More