Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has spoken publicly for the first time about the turbulent circumstances surrounding his departure from SSC Napoli in 2024, describing the experience as deeply disrespectful and painful.
In an exclusive interview with Gazzetta dello Sport ahead of Galatasaray's UEFA Champions League play-off clash against Juventus, Osimhen opened up about the events that led to his exit from the Italian club where he had previously been a key figure in their 2022-23 Serie A title triumph.
The breaking point, according to Osimhen, came after Napoli's official TikTok account posted a video that mocked his missed penalty against Bologna.
"Anyone can miss a penalty," Osimhen stated. "But Napoli only did it to me, with inappropriate insinuations. After that video, everything changed. I was insulted, and no one ever apologized. I became the victim of racist insults, and I made my decision: I wanted to leave."
Osimhen revealed that he responded by removing photos of himself in a Napoli shirt from his Instagram, which he claims the club used to turn fans against him.
He described feeling targeted and humiliated, stating that the environment became toxic. "They treated me like a dog, go here, go there, do this, do that," he said. "I'm not a puppet. I fought too hard to build my career to accept that kind of treatment."
Despite the fallout, Osimhen noted that head coach Antonio Conte wanted him to stay and that he would have been open to continuing under the Italian tactician.
However, he alleged that a prior verbal agreement allowing him to depart in the following summer was not fully honored by the club’s leadership. He also confirmed interest from Juventus, but Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis blocked any move to the Turin side.
Osimhen joined Galatasaray on loan in 2024 before making the transfer permanent in 2025.
He has since thrived in Turkey, becoming a fan favorite and contributing significantly to the team's successes in the Süper Lig and domestic cups.
"I have found peace and passion here at Galatasaray," Osimhen added, emphasizing his focus on the present while reflecting on the past without bitterness toward the Napoli fans he once cherished.
Osimhen's candid remarks highlight ongoing discussions about player welfare, respect, and the handling of social media by football clubs. He expressed no regrets about his decision to move on, viewing it as necessary for his well-being and career.