Victor Osimhen, the recent recipient of the Africa Player of the Year award, claims that the contentious Tik-Tok video that sparked controversy regarding his relationship with his club Napoli was the result of a “stupid mistake” made by someone rather than poor treatment from the organization.
Following his victory in Marrakech, Morocco, for the 2023 CAF POTY award, the Napoli striker made an announcement. His victory became the first for Nigeria since Nwankwo Kanu’s in 1999, concurrently with Super Falcons forward Asisat Oshoala’s record-tying sixth Women’s Player of the Year title.
A few weeks ago, Osimhen became the target of jeers when the Super Eagles striker’s missed penalty against Bologna was made fun of in one of two contentious films posted by the club’s TikTok administrator.
Nigerian football supporters took this as an opportunity to criticize Napoli, saying their star player was being treated unfairly.
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During the post-event interview, Osimhen reiterated that the matter was handled very well by the club.
“I want to correct an impression here, Napoli didn’t treat me badly,” Osimhen told journalists in Marrakech, Morocco.
“It was a stupid mistake from an individual and I wasn’t happy about it. Aurelio De Laurentiis (Napoli President) took charge of the situation and stood with me. I spoke to the individual and he was remorseful. I am happy with that.”
Osimhen has continued his excellent form this season and, despite being sidelined by an injury, has six goals and one assist in 11 league appearances. Last season, he helped Napoli win the Serie A for the first time in thirty-three years by scoring 26 goals.
The reigning champions, however, have slowed down this year and are presently sixth in Serie A with 24 points from 15 games. They also have aspirations of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League round of 16.
