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Ex-Napoli Director Fires Back, Denies Victor Osimhen Racism Allegations
Former Napoli sporting director Mauro Meluso has dismissed allegations of racism made by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, following the forward’s recent remarks about his final period at the Italian club.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Osimhen, now at Galatasaray, claimed he was treated “like a dog” during his time in Naples and suggested that a TikTok video shared by Napoli after he missed a penalty carried racist undertones. The controversial post generated widespread backlash and became a major talking point ahead of his departure from the club in 2024.
Speaking to Radio Napoli Centrale, Meluso defended Napoli’s actions, insisting there was no intent to demean or insult the striker.
“Concerning the TikTok video, I recall that Nicola Lombardo [Napoli’s communications director] and I spoke with Osimhen to calm him,” Meluso said. “He was extremely upset the day after it was posted. We were accused of racism, but there was nothing of the sort — it was meant to be light-hearted irony.”
Meluso reiterated the club’s opposition to discrimination, stressing that Napoli does not tolerate racism in any form.
“He took the matter very personally, but anyone using racist language would not be tolerated. Napoli stands firmly against racism, as do the people of the city,” he added.
Although Osimhen scored 76 goals in 133 appearances and played a pivotal role in Napoli’s 2022–23 Serie A triumph — their first league title in 33 years — tensions reportedly escalated after the TikTok incident. Meluso acknowledged that the episode deeply affected the striker but maintained it was blown out of proportion.
“Victor had renewed his contract shortly before Christmas, and by December the club was still assessing its plans,” he explained. “The TikTok video had a significant emotional impact on him, especially as it drew reactions from Nigerian government representatives who made strong comments.
“In my view, the media impact was exaggerated because there was no intention to offend him. The situation was exploited, though certainly not by his agent, Calenda, who has always acted professionally.”
Osimhen eventually departed Napoli in the summer of 2024, initially joining Galatasaray on loan before completing a permanent move following an impressive campaign in Turkey.
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