Billy Gilmour's injury worse than feared as Scotland miss out

Napoli midfielder Billy Gilmour will miss the rest of the season with a serious knee injury sustained in Scotland’s Euro 2024 qualifier against Spain. The 23-year-old suffered the damage during the 2–1 defeat in Madrid on Friday, forcing immediate withdrawal from the match. Medical assessments at Napoli’s clinic confirmed the extent of the damage. Scotland manager Steve Clarke confirmed Gilmour’s absence from the squad for the upcoming Nations League fixtures. Clarke stated the injury requires surgical intervention, ruling out participation in the tournament. Gilmour joined Napoli from Chelsea in July 2023 for a reported £5m fee. He made 25 Serie A appearances this season, scoring once against Lecce. Scotland’s failure to qualify for the Euros has intensified criticism of Clarke’s squad selection, with Gilmour’s omission among the focal points. Former Scotland forward James McFadden questioned the decision, citing Gilmour’s form at Napoli. Gilmour’s recovery timeline remains unclear, with Napoli planning surgery within days. His absence leaves a midfield void ahead of Scotland’s Nations League campaign.