Victor Osimhen has broken his silence on the viral TikTok video that mocked him for missing a penalty in Napoli’s Serie A clash at Bologna on September 24 which ended goalless.
The reigning Italian champions have been accused of displaying racism which drew the attention of the Nigerian government while Italian pundits in the region of Campania, where the city of Naples is located, were not pleased with those accusations.
All these have put Osimhen’s future at the Stadio Diego Armando Maradona under the microscope with 18 months left on his existing contract.
Despite deleting all content connecting him Napoli on Instagram, the Nigerian forward released a statement on the same platform, pointing out the love has for Napoli, the fans and the city, disregarding the accusations of racism towards him as “untrue”. He also appreciated the love and concern shown by Nigerians on the matter.
“Coming to the City of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me. The People of Naples have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us,” read the statement.
“The passion of the People of Naples fuels my fire to always play with my heart and soul, and the love for the badge is unwavering as I wear it with pride.
“The accusations against People of Naples are untrue. I have a lot of friends that are Napolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life. I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for leading their voices to support and reach out to me.
“Thanks so much, I’m forever grateful. Let’s support unity, respect and understanding. FORZA NAPOLI SEMPRE.”
In 2023 no player has scored more away goals in the top five European leagues than Victor Osimhen (14). pic.twitter.com/Vh8mVXUHxf
— Official SSC Napoli (@en_sscnapoli) October 1, 2023
Osimhen scored in back-to-back Serie A games against Udinese and Lecce to take his league tally for the season to five goals in seven games.
He will be looking to be in the thick of the action when Napoli host Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.
