Napoli issue statement insisting they 'never intended to offend or make fun of Victor Osimhen' after TikTok video sparks backlash from fans and striker

Napoli's social media account sparked controversy by posting a video of the Nigerian forward missing a penalty while a high-pitched voice played over the top saying: "Gimme penalty please". Osimhen's agent suggested they could take legal action against the Serie A side because of the video and the player removed all mention of the club from his Instagram account.

Osimhen then refrained from celebrating his goal against Udinese and the apparent breakdown in his relationship with Napoli has resulted in reports that he could leave, with Real Madrid and clubs from Saudi Arabia said to be after him.

Napoli have attempted to resolve the situation by releasing a statement insisting they did not mean to upset Osimhen, but they stopped short of making an apology.

"Napoli, wishing to avoid any exploitation of the issue, point out that we never wanted to offend or mock Victor Osimhen, who is a treasure of this club," a statement read.

"As proof of that, during the summer training retreat, the Club firmly rebuffed every offer that was received for the striker’s transfer abroad.

"Social media, in particular TikTok, has always used an expressive form of language with a light heart and creativity, without wanting to, as in the case with Osimhen as protagonist, have any intention of insult or derision.

"In any case, if Victor perceived any offence towards him, this was not what the club intended."

Napoli coach Rudi Garcia will hope the player is back in good spirits when his team take on Lecce in Serie A this weekend.