In recent developments, the partnership between Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen and Italian football club Napoli has faced challenges. Osimhen’s remarkable contributions to Napoli’s success last season have been overshadowed by recent events.
Criticism has emerged due to Napoli’s official TikTok account posting videos that mocked Osimhen, leading to widespread disapproval. One video, in particular, drew significant attention by highlighting Osimhen’s missed penalty in a recent match against Bologna, leaving fans displeased.
Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, expressed his concern over the situation on social media and warned of possible legal action to protect the player’s reputation.
The tension has extended to the field, with Osimhen displaying frustration during a recent match and apologizing afterward. Osimhen has also removed most Napoli-related content from his Instagram account, leaving his next steps uncertain.
The strain in the player-club relationship began in the summer amid uncertainty over Osimhen’s contract extension. While negotiations seemed promising, Osimhen’s comments after Napoli’s opening Serie A game raised doubts.
Many clubs, including Chelsea, Manchester United, Arsenal, and Saudi Arabian teams, are interested in Osimhen, given his exceptional skills. He has even been nominated for prestigious awards like the Ballon d’Or and FIFA Best Player, making his contract’s future uncertain.
As Napoli prepares to face Udinese, the spotlight remains on Osimhen, with fans and pundits eager to see how off-field controversies might impact his performance and whether he will be selected for the game.