Super Eagles of Nigeria striker Victor Osimhen has called for unity among Napoli fans and the wider football community, following a recent controversy surrounding a TikTok video posted on the club’s official account that appeared to mock him.
Osimhen missed a penalty in Napoli’s goalless draw against Bologna last weekend. Following that, the club’s official TikTok account posted a video that many accused the club of racism and disrespect.
The video was widely criticised by fans and pundits alike. Napoli said last Thursday they never intended to offend their striker, but stopped short of apologising to him. In a statement released on his Instagram account, Osimhen said urged fans to move on from the incident.
“Coming to the city of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me,” said Osimhen on his Instagram account. “The people of Naples have shown me so much love and kindness and I will not allow anyone to come between us.
“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.
“I have a lot of friends who are Neapolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life… Let’s continue to spread unity, respect and understanding. Forza Napoli Sempre.”
Osimhen’s agent Roberto Calenda threatened legal action for the video, which was later deleted, while the 24-year-old player removed many pictures of himself in a Napoli shirt from his social media accounts.
Despite the controversy, Osimhen played and scored in Napoli’s wins over Udinese on Wednesday and Lecce on Saturday to take his tally to five goals in seven league games this season.
Osimhen joined Napoli in 2020 for a record 81.3 million euros ($85.8 million) and was key to end the club’s 33-year wait for a league title last season as he was Serie A’s top scorer with 26 goals.
Napoli are third in the league standings and will host Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League on Tuesday.
Osimhen’s message of unity is a welcome one and it is hoped that it will help to heal the divisions that have been caused by the recent controversy. Football is a game that should bring people together, not divide them.
