Victor Osimhen, the current winner of the Africa Player of the Year award, claims that the contentious Tik-Tok video that sparked controversy over 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.
Osimhen was the subject of mockery a few weeks ago after the club’s admin on TikTok released two controversial videos with one mocking the Super Eagles striker following his penalty misses against Bologna.
This led to criticisms of Napoli by Nigerian football fans who believed their star player was treated badly.
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.”
After helping Napoli win the Serie A last season for the first time in 33 years by scoring 26 goals, Osimhen has continued his fine form this season and despite being halted by an injury, he has scored six goals and one assist in 11 league appearances.
But the defending champions have slowed down this season, currently sixth in Serie A with 24 points after 15 matches but they will also look to advance to the round of 16 of the UEFA Champions League.
