José Mourinho played a decisive role in convincing midfielder Scott McTominay to represent Scotland internationally, a key moment now underscored by McTominay’s recent match-winning performances in the World Cup qualifiers.
Former Scotland manager Alex McLeish revealed Mourinho’s intervention. McLeish told The Telegraph that all Scots owe a degree of gratitude to the Portuguese coach. Mourinho was then managing McTominay at Manchester United.
McTominay, whose father Frank was born in Helensburgh, Scotland, was eligible for the Scottish national team. Mourinho believed England manager Gareth Southgate was taking too long to call up the young player.
Mourinho stated in an interview that England risked losing McTominay. He directly advised McLeish to contact the player as soon as possible. “José made it clear that England ran the risk of losing the player and that I should contact him at the first opportunity,” McLeish recounted.
McLeish then arranged a meeting with McTominay and Mourinho at Manchester United’s training facility. The trip was complicated by the severe “Beast from the East” storm, which almost prevented McLeish from reaching his destination.
Despite initial doubts about needing to convince McTominay, the midfielder ultimately made his choice. McLeish noted McTominay “made it clear he wanted to represent Scotland.” McLeish described it as one of his most valuable trips.
McTominay is now a central figure for the Scottish national team. He played every minute of Scotland’s recent World Cup qualification campaign. He scored two goals in six matches, including a “genius bicycle kick goal” against Denmark.
Mourinho had initially promoted McTominay to Manchester United’s first team. McTominay went on to play 255 games for the Red Devils before moving to Napoli last season.