Did Osimhen fear racism in Italy before joining Napoli?

Question

Accepted Answer

Victor Osimhen Expressed Skepticism About Joining Napoli Due to Concerns Over Racism in Italian Football

Victor Osimhen harboured reservations about joining Napoli, primarily due to the persistent issue of racism within Italian football. He acknowledged that racism is a global concern but felt reassured after visiting Naples and experiencing the city's environment firsthand. This sentiment was echoed by teammate Kalidou Koulibaly, who confirmed Osimhen's inquiries about racism in Italy and assured him of a positive experience in Naples.
Initial Skepticism Stemming from Racist Incidents

Osimhen revealed that he initially felt skeptical about moving to Napoli because of the documented racist reputation associated with some Italian football fan bases. He stated that while racism is a problem that exists everywhere, his personal visit to Naples and interaction with the city's environment helped alleviate these concerns. He expressed confidence in his choice, believing the Neapolitan community would embrace him with their affection.
Koulibaly's Reassurance and Personal Experience

Napoli's Senegalese international defender, Kalidou Koulibaly, confirmed that Osimhen had sought his counsel regarding the prevalence of racism in Italy prior to finalising his transfer. Koulibaly shared his own experiences with racist insults, clarifying that while he has encountered such bitterness, it has never occurred in Naples. He reassured Osimhen that he would not face these issues in the city, advising him that joining Napoli would indeed be the best decision.
Substantial Transfer Fee and Personal Ambitions

The transfer of Victor Osimhen to Napoli represented a club-record fee for the Italian side, amounting to up to €80 million. Osimhen described playing for Napoli as a dream and expressed gratitude towards the club's owner, Aurelio De Laurentiis, and coach, Gennaro Gattuso, for making him feel like part of the family from the outset. This immediate warmth and consideration were pivotal factors in his decision to accept the challenge.
Napoli's Recent Performance and Future Prospects

Napoli concluded the previous Serie A season in seventh place and secured a spot in the Europa League following their Italian Cup victory, their first major trophy in six years. The club's investment in Osimhen, one of Serie A's most expensive acquisitions, signals their ambition for the upcoming season, which is slated to commence on September 19. Osimhen, alongside other new arrivals like Amir Rrahmani, was presented at the team's training camp, underscoring the club's preparations for the new campaign.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Did Osimhen fear racism in Italy before joining Napoli?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends