Victor Osimhen has launched a blistering attack on his former club Napoli, claiming he was subjected to degrading treatment during his time in Italy.
The Nigerian international striker, who recently completed a high-profile move to Saudi Arabian side Al-Hilal, opened up about what he described as a painful and deeply disrespectful experience at the Serie A club.
In emotional revelations that have sent shockwaves through the football community, Osimhen did not hold back in expressing his frustration. “They treated me like a dog,” the forward stated, pulling back the curtain on the personal struggles he endured despite his on-field success.
The 25-year-old’s comments paint a stark picture of life behind the scenes at the Italian club, where he rose to prominence as one of Europe’s most lethal finishers. While his performances earned him global recognition and helped establish Napoli as a formidable force, Osimhen revealed that his relationship with the club’s environment was toxic.
Sources close to the player suggest that cultural barriers, media pressure, and a lack of institutional support contributed to his deteriorating experience in Southern Italy. His revelations have reignited debate about how European clubs manage and support African players navigating foreign football cultures.
Osimhen’s career trajectory has been nothing short of remarkable – from modest beginnings in Nigeria to becoming a marquee signing for Saudi Pro League champions Al-Hilal. His transfer to the Middle East is now being viewed by many analysts as a necessary escape from an unsustainable situation in Naples.
Football welfare experts have weighed in on the controversy, noting that Osimhen’s experience reflects broader challenges facing African footballers in Europe. “Behind the goals and glory, players often battle isolation, identity struggles, and institutional indifference,” one analyst commented.
The striker’s departure from Napoli marks the end of a complicated chapter. While he delivered memorable moments for the Partenopei faithful, including helping secure their first Scudetto in over three decades, the emotional scars from his time in Italy appear to run deep.
As Osimhen embarks on his new adventure in Saudi Arabia, supporters will hope the environment offers not just professional opportunity but the respect and dignity he felt was denied to him in Europe.
Napoli has not yet responded to the striker’s allegations.
