“I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for lending their voices to support and reach out to me”-Osimhen

Nigerian international Victor Osimhen insists he would continue to represent Napoli with integrity despite continuous rumours that there is a dispute between the striker and the Italian champions.

This was announced by the 24-year-old on Sunday in a formal statement.

Two videos featuring Osimhen had been uploaded to Napoli’s official TikTok account; the first made fun of his missed penalty against Bologna while the second compared him to a coconut.

The incident enraged the season’s leading scorer as well as several of his personal friends, followers, and government officials in his native Nigeria.

There have been rumours that the Super Eagles striker will leave the Italian teams at the end of the current campaign; some have even said that he may go as early as January.

But on Sunday, Osimhen made clear his dedication to the city of Napoli and the team in a statement shared on social media.

“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.

“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 who are Napolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life. I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for lending their voices to support and reach out to me.

“I’m forever grateful. Let’s support unity, respect and understanding.”

In the wake of the Osimhen-themed TikToks that were recently sent to the club’s social media platforms, Napoli also announced on Sunday that they have formally parted ways with social media officer Alessio Fortino.

After the uproar, Fortino, who had worked for Napoli for two and a half years, resigned.

Later, it was clarified to media sources that Fortino’s decision to resign had already been made in the past and was unrelated to the Osimhen problem.

Importantly, Calciomercato.com noted that Fortino had not created the TikToks himself, but that whomever did so has already personally apologised to Osimhen.

After the response, Fortino, who had spent the previous 2.5 years with Napoli, resigned from his position. While announcing his resignation from Napoli, Fortino made no mention of Osimhen or the posts on TikTok in his personal statement.