News

Napoli Boss Speaks Out On Osimhen TikTok Controversy

Published

9 months ago

September 28, 2023

Napoli manager Rudi Garcia has made it clear that star striker Victor Osimhen was concentrated on the match against Udinese despite TikTok incident.

This week, the Partenopei’s official TikTok account, which is known for posting videos with a particular tone about its players, sparked controversy after posting two videos featuring the Nigerian striker, one of which mocked his missed penalty against Bologna and the other of which compared him to a coconut. As a result of Osimhen’s outrage, Napoli received a legal notice from his agent Roberto Calenda. Despite the fact that the films have already been removed, the striker has reportedly still not received an apology from the squad, according to recent sources.

Garcia discussed the star striker in an interview with DAZN prior to Napoli’s match against Udinese [via Football Italia]: “We talked after Bologna, we were all frustrated and angry because we did not get the victory. In these two days, there have been some clumsy incidents on social media. I talked to him again and he is concentrated on the pitch.”

“He will give his best for this jersey, we must all be united, and we are. Playing at home is important.”

Osimhen’s long-term future at the club has been called into doubt in light of the divisive sentiments that had been posted on social media. The Nigerian star is expected to attract interest from Saudi Arabian sides in January after helping the squad end a 33-year Scudetto drought with 26 goals last season. Real Madrid and Chelsea are reportedly also considering signing the striker.

Osimhen participated last night against Udinese and scored a goal for the Partenopei. On September 30, he most likely will play against Lecce.