It is with great disappointment that Napoli fans and management have come to terms with the fact that Victor Osimhen, the once shining star of the team, has not been included in the official 23-man Serie A squad for this season. Osimhen, whose impressive 26 goals contributed significantly to Napoli’s Scudetto win two seasons ago, now finds himself on the outskirts of the club’s plans.
The Nigerian striker was widely expected to make a move away from Napoli, with talks of his departure dominating the football headlines. However, despite signing a contract extension with Napoli in December that would keep him at the club until 2026, Osimhen’s future remains uncertain. Club president Aurelio De Laurentiis had announced that Osimhen would be leaving at the end of the season, sparking speculation about potential suitors.
Negotiations with Chelsea and Saudi Pro League club Al Ahli seemed promising, with the latter appearing to be the frontrunners in securing Osimhen’s services. However, as the transfer window closed in both Italy and England, it became apparent that a deal could not be reached. Reports suggested that Chelsea could not meet Osimhen’s wage demands, leading to the potential move to Saudi Arabia falling through.
For Osimhen, who had presumably set his sights on a new chapter in his career, the turn of events must be particularly disheartening. The reported release clause of €130 million seemed to hint at the high value placed on the player by Napoli, but ultimately, the inability to secure a transfer deal has left Osimhen in a limbo of sorts.
With Osimhen’s absence from the official squad, Napoli will have to readjust their plans for the season ahead. The striker’s proven goal-scoring ability will undoubtedly be missed, and the team will have to look to other players to step up and fill the void left by Osimhen’s potential departure.
The saga surrounding Victor Osimhen’s failed transfer from Napoli serves as a cautionary tale in the unpredictable world of football. Despite the best-laid plans and intentions, circumstances can change rapidly, leaving players and clubs in precarious situations. As Osimhen navigates this challenging period in his career, only time will tell what the future holds for the talented striker.