Napoli has said they never meant to ridicule striker Victor Osimhen after posting a TikTok video that mocked his missed penalty. The video, which has since been deleted, showed Osimhen failing to score from the penalty spot during a match against Bologna.
In their statement, Napoli clarified that they never intended to offend or ridicule Osimhen, describing him as an asset to the club. They explained that the video, which was in a creative and light-hearted spirit, was not meant to mock or deride the player.
Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, had criticised the video, stating that it caused very serious damage and threatened legal action. He had said, “What happened today on Napoli’s official profile on the TikTok platform is not acceptable. A video mocking Victor was first made public and then, but now belatedly, deleted.
He continued, “A serious fact that causes very serious damage to the player and adds to the treatment that the boy is suffering in the last period between media trials and fake news. We reserve the right to take legal action and any useful initiative to protect Victor.”
Napoli’s statement reads, “To avoid any potential exploitation of the matter, SSC Napoli would like to explicitly state that the club never intended to offend or make fun of Victor Osimhen, who is an asset to the club. Over the course of the summer Napoli rejected all offers to sign the striker – firm proof of the club’s appreciation of him. On social media, and TikTok particularly, expressive language is used in a light-hearted and playful manner. In this case involving Victor there was no intention of mockery or derision. If Victor was in any way offended, this was not at all in the club’s intentions.”
The 24-year-old Nigerian striker became a fan favourite in Naples last season after scoring 31 goals in all competitions, helping Napoli win their first league title since 1990. While Osimhen has so far not been at his usual best in the early weeks of the season, he has scored three goals in six appearances.
Osimhen is currently in negotiations with Napoli for a contract extension, as his current deal is set to expire in June 2025.
