In the latest episode of what seems to be an ongoing saga, Napoli’s star striker, Victor Osimhen, is demanding an apology from the club’s social media team.
The source of this dispute revolves around a series of TikTok posts that the team shared, some of which were not only offensive but also included a video with racial undertones.
This move has sparked a serious reaction from Osimhen and his representative, Roberto Calenda, who have not ruled out the possibility of taking legal action against Napoli.
To demonstrate the gravity of his discontent, Osimhen has taken the extraordinary step of purging his Instagram account of all photos and videos featuring him in Napoli’s distinctive blue shirt. This gesture comes on the heels of a particularly damning TikTok video that openly mocked the player.
Despite the turmoil, Osimhen remains firmly in the squad for Napoli’s upcoming Serie A fixture against Udinese. Reports suggest that the Nigerian striker is determined to deliver a strong performance for the club and has not made any requests to be omitted from the squad. It is anticipated that he will feature prominently in the starting lineup.
However, it is evident that the TikTok videos have struck a nerve with Osimhen, prompting him to seek clarification from the club’s social media manager. Importantly, Osimhen is not seeking a direct confrontation with manager Rudi Garcia at this juncture.
The fallout from this incident could have far-reaching consequences for Osimhen’s future at Napoli. There are growing indications that he may be distancing himself from the prospect of signing a new contract with the club, despite earlier speculations.
This latest episode is just one chapter in a series of challenges that Osimhen has encountered during his tenure at Napoli. His agent’s mention of potential legal action stems from an objectionable video that Napoli posted about the striker. Additionally, Osimhen found himself in a verbal altercation with manager Rudi Garcia when he was substituted during a match against Bologna.
The TikTok video and the ensuing displeasure from Osimhen and his representatives are only the tip of the iceberg in his Napoli saga. Beyond this incident, Osimhen had expressed a desire to depart the club during the summer transfer window. However, when Napoli rejected an offer from Al Hilal, Osimhen ultimately opted to remain.
The relationship between Osimhen and Garcia has been strained by misunderstandings, and the video posted by Napoli’s social media team deeply offended the striker. Although the team clarified that there was no intent to offend him, by that time, Osimhen had already informed his agent, Roberto Calenda.
Regarding contract renewal, no agreement has been reached thus far. In recent days, Calenda had been awaiting Napoli’s response to specific requests, but as of now, the club has not provided any feedback. This ongoing situation has further strained relations between the two parties, potentially paving the way for a January exit.
Furthermore, Osimhen’s contract with Napoli expires in just over a year, a factor that could potentially lower his transfer price if a January move materializes.