Napoli's Lighthearted TikTok Video: A Fun Gesture, Not Intended to Offend Striker Victor Osimhen

Italian soccer club Napoli has clarified that it did not have any intention of offending or mocking star player Victor Osimhen. The club faced criticism for sharing a TikTok video of the striker's missed penalty, which was later deleted. In a statement published on their website, Napoli expressed their appreciation for Osimhen's contributions and referred to him as a valuable member of the team.

The video on TikTok, which featured footage of Osimhen's penalty appeal during Napoli's 0-0 draw against Bologna, has been removed by the Italian champion. Last season, Napoli won its first Scudetto since 1989/90. In the video, a high-pitched voice accompanies the penalty appeal by Osimhen, followed by laughter just before he misses the spot kick.

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Napoli has released a statement on Thursday clarifying that the club had no intentions of offending or ridiculing Victor Osimhen, who is considered a valuable asset to the club, in order to prevent any potential misinterpretations of the situation.

During the summer, Napoli consistently turned down every offer to acquire the forward, confirming the club's high regard for him.

"Expressive language is employed in a lighthearted and playful way, especially on social media platforms like TikTok. In Victor's case, there was no intention to mock or ridicule."

"If Victor was in any way offended, this was not at all in the clubs intentions."

The statement comes after Osimhens agent, Roberto Calenda, threatened to take legal action against the club.

In a recent post on X, previously known as Twitter, Calenda expressed his disapproval of the events that took place on Napolis official profile on the TikTok platform.

The video, which initially mocked Victor, was publicly shared and later, albeit belatedly, removed. This incident has caused significant harm to the player and has only served to contribute to the already challenging situations he has been enduring lately, involving media scrutiny and the circulation of false information.

"We will utilize legal measures and any necessary actions to ensure the protection of Victor."

In a video shared on X by Italian journalist Gennaro Del Vecchio, Osimhen can be observed entering the team's hotel prior to their 4-1 victory over Udinese on Wednesday. He exchanges greetings with team manager Giuseppe Santoro, yet seemingly purposefully disregards multiple teammates as he enters.

Osimhen scored in Napolis match against Udinese but celebrated in muted fashion before embracing his teammates.

The club is fifth in Serie A after six games and faces Lecce on Saturday.