Fresh off of last month's historic qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, our partners adidas spoke to Napoli duo Scott McTominay and Billy Gilmour.

The pair - who were both pivotal parts in Napoli's 2024-25 Serie A title win - reflect on their experiences on the biggest stages, detail the confidence they get from pulling on their adidas gear and share advice for aspiring young player. 

 

Scott McTominay

Since joining Napoli and earning Serie A MVP, you’ve become a hero in Naples. How did that success sharpened your ambition and confidence for Scotland’s World Cup push?

“I’m having a great time with Napoli – the Neapolitans are so passionate: the love and loyalty they give to the team really drove us to the Serie A title last year. That experience makes you hungry for more and to succeed against the odds again in front of the Scottish fans at the World Cup would be incredible.”

 

When you return to the Scotland camp after club football, what’s the first thing that makes you feel at home again?

“It has to be seeing my family. Nothing beats seeing my family and close friends.”

 

You’ve scored big goals in crucial moments for Scotland. When you find yourself in those situations under pressure, what goes through your mind and how do you stay calm?

“I have visualised and manifested many situations in my head and dream of doing wonderful things in football. The harder you work daily the luckier you get is my opinion. Every time I step on the pitch, I give my all.”

 

After the adrenaline of a big match, what’s your go-to way to unwind and reset before the next game?

“Nothing special, I go home and do normal things in the house like watching TV and recovering mainly with good food, relaxing with family.”

 

From training sessions to match day, how important is confidence in your gear for a tournament as big as the World Cup? And what made you choose the adidas boots you’ll wear this time?

“It’s very important, obviously. I’ve been wearing adidas football boots for the whole of my senior career. Typically, players in my position wear the Predators but I prefer the F50s which comes off the back of wearing the adidas X boots. They feel lighter and better on my feet and I’ve scored some good goals in them, so I don’t plan on changing anything now.”

 

The new Scotland jersey has dropped and fans are buzzing. What was your first reaction when you saw it and what details stand out the most to you?

“The blue-on-blue St Andrew’s cross makes it for me. It’s such a clean look and I really like the subtle details throughout the shirt. It’s one of those kits you feel proud to put on.”

 

Scotland supporters are famous for their loyalty and noise. How much does their support lift you when you’re playing away from home?

“The noise they made at Hampden Park when I scored the goal in our qualifying match speaks for itself. They were right behind us. The noise was incredible and you feel an immense sense of pride scoring in front of the Scotland fans.”

 

You’ve experienced the Euros before, but this is your first World Cup - how does it feel stepping onto the biggest stage in football? Do you feel a different kind of pressure or energy?

“I just can’t wait for the World Cup. It’s going to be incredible to step out on the biggest stage of football. Of course, it will be different but I need to try and treat it like any other football environment. I just can’t wait, I am so excited for it.”

 

Billy Gilmour

You’ve been praised for your composure - how much of that comes from preparation, and how much is about trusting your instincts in the moment?

“I think since I was young I have always known I’ve got to move the ball quicker and faster out of situations because I was one the smallest players in my teams. As a midfielder you don’t want to get caught on the ball, so you are constantly scanning and trying to think of where to play the next pass and I think that comes down to confidence and trusting your instincts.”

 

You’ve played in different leagues and under different managers - what’s one lesson or philosophy that’s really stuck with you and shaped who you are today?

“I think with every manager I’ve played under, I've taken a little bit of everything from each of them. I don’t think I could single one out one because I have worked with lots of great managers.”

 

You’ve evolved from a promising youth prospect into a well-established midfielder - what’s your advice to young players trying to stay confident when playing alongside more experienced teammates?

“My advice to young players is to always work hard and enjoy it. We are so lucky to be out there playing football. I understand it is a little strange when you’re playing alongside some players you have watched or maybe even looked up to, but remember, they are also just human. You have to give your all, stay calm in the moment and play your own game.”

 

How important is it for you to feel confident in your gear during a match? When choosing football boots, what are the main things you look for when picking the perfect pair?

“I do really love adidas predator football boots, I had them as a kid and always stuck with them. The new boot feeling when they arrive is still the best feeling – it doesn’t go away. Fresh new boots make you feel great.”

 

The new Scotland jersey dropped and fans are buzzing. What was your first reaction when you saw it? Did it feel like something you’d be proud to wear on the world stage?

“The new Scotland kit is my favourite one yet, the crest in the middle and the little details on the jersey. I love it and to wear it at a World Cup will be a dream come true. I can’t wait.”

 

Scotland is famous for its passionate supporters - how much of a boost will they give you during a tournament like the World Cup?

“The tartan army have always been passionate and travel everywhere to watch us and we can’t thank them enough for their support. It doesn’t go unnoticed. Their chants and their ability to push the team along is so important to us as players. Now with the World Cup coming I’m sure the whole of Scotland will want to head over and we can’t wait to experience it with them!”

 

As Scott and Billy gear up for their first World Cup, they'll be heading to USA, Canada and Mexico with the new Scotland jersey on their back and the familiar feel of adidas Elite Predator football boots at their feet.