Napoli has clarified that their recently deleted TikTok post, featuring Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, was not intended as mockery. The video depicted Osimhen missing a penalty kick in a Serie A match, accompanied by a high-pitched voice saying, "gimme penalty please." This post had triggered a strong reaction from Osimhen's agent, Roberto Calenda, who threatened legal action and voiced concerns about the treatment Osimhen had been enduring from media trials and fake news.
In response, Napoli issued a statement asserting that they had no intention of offending or mocking Osimhen, emphasizing his importance to the club. They pointed out that during the summer, they had rejected transfer offers for Osimhen, highlighting his value to the team.
The club explained that social media platforms, including TikTok, often employ a light-hearted and creative style of communication, and any perceived offense was unintended. Napoli expressed regret if Osimhen felt insulted but reiterated their respect for him.
Following this controversy, Osimhen removed all Napoli-related posts from his Instagram account. The Minister of Sports Development, John Enoh, also expressed concerns and initiated diplomatic efforts in collaboration with the Nigerian Ambassador to Italy to address the matter appropriately.
