Victor Osimhen breaks silence over Napoli TikTok videos mocking him | Football

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The striker has called for ‘unity, respect and understanding’ amid the furore (Picture: Getty)

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has at last broken his silence on the controversial videos posted on the club’s official TikTok account in which he was mocked in two offensive clips.

The Nigeria international is reportedly furious with the Italian club over the videos – which have since been deleted – with his agent even threatening legal action.

One of the clips posted on the social media app mocked Osimhen for missing a penalty late last month while another labelled him a ‘coconut’, which has been viewed as a racial slur.

Napoli finally issued a statement on Thursday in which they described the striker as a ‘treasure of the club’ but stopped short of offering a formal apology.

Osimhen is believed to be upset with the way Napoli have handled the matter but, as he addressed the furore for the first time on Sunday, distanced fans from the videos and thanked them for their support.

In a statement posted on social media, he wrote: ‘Coming to the city of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me.

‘The people of Napoli have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us.

Napoli striker Victor Osimhen

Osimhen has refused to take a penalty since the TikTok video was posted (Picture: Getty)

‘The passion of the people of Naples fuels my fire to always play with my heart and soul, and the love for the badge is unwavering as I wear it with pride.

‘The accusations against people of Naples are untrue. I have a lot of friends that are Napolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life.

‘I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for leading their voices to support and reach out to me.

‘I’m forever grateful. Let’s support unity, respect and understanding. FORZA NAPOLI SEMPRE.’

Osimhen is believed to have received a private apology from Napoli’s board of directors while the club’s social media executive has now stepped down from his role.

The forward refused to celebrate after scoring against Udinese and Lecce in recent matches and also snubbed the opportunity to take a penalty against the latter. He will next be in action on Tuesday night when Napoli take on Real Madrid in the Champions League.


MORE : Napoli fail to apologise to Victor Osimhen in statement following TikTok video mocking striker


MORE : Victor Osimhen furious with Napoli over TikTok video which mocked the striker

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