Napoli deny ‘frosty’ relationship with Osimhen
Napoli have denied tensions between the club and striker Victor Osimhen after reports suggested talks over a new contract were at a standstill.
Last month, the Nigeria international was mocked by the club’s own social media account for missing a penalty.
Napoli said they never meant to offend and now say they are hopeful Osmihen will extend his contract.
“Describing relations between Osimhen and Napoli as frosty is entirely out of place,” the Italian champions said.
Osimhen was Napoli’s top scorer last season with 26 league goals as they won Serie A.
He has scored six goals so far this campaign but recently injured his hamstring on international duty.
Osimhen’s current contract expires in 2025, but Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis was reported to have claimed that his “mood has changed” over signing a new deal, adding that “life goes on”.
Napoli suggested De Laurentiis’ comments had been distorted, adding: “President De Laurentiis did not say anything negative about Victor.
“He simply stated that after a series of lengthy contract negotiations which ended with the parties shaking hands and agreeing to continue together, Victor had second thoughts.
“President De Laurentiis hopes this is merely a pause for reflection. Over the coming weeks, when Victor will not be able to play as he recovers from injury, the president, Osimhen and his agent Roberto Calenda will sit down calmly to discuss the future.”
Meanwhile, in quotes reported by AFP, Napoli manager Rudi Garcia insisted he was calm about his future at the club.
Mixed results so far this season sees the club currently sit fifth in Serie A, and there have been reports former Tottenham boss Antonio Conte was being lined up to replace Garcia.
“I am serene and calm,” said Garcia, who took over from Luciano Spalletti in the summer.
“What has been said and written is exaggerated. I’m not saying we’ve done everything well, but we haven’t done everything badly either.
“What matters is my relationship with the club that has supported me, with the president, with the managers and with my players.”