Napoli’s star striker, Victor Osimhen, has been left out of the squad for their upcoming Serie A match against Parma, signaling a significant rift between the player and the club following the collapse of his potential transfer to Chelsea. This decision has left fans and pundits alike questioning the future of the Nigerian forward, who played a crucial role in Napoli’s first Scudetto win in over three decades just two seasons ago.
The Chelsea Transfer Saga
The 25-year-old Osimhen was on the verge of moving to Chelsea, with both clubs reportedly in advanced negotiations. The transfer, which would have been one of the biggest moves of the summer, fell through at the last minute, leaving Osimhen in a precarious position at Napoli. Despite his stellar performances, which have attracted interest from top European clubs, the forward now finds himself sidelined, a situation that has led to speculations about his deteriorating relationship with the Italian club.
A “Completely Broken” Relationship
According to renowned football journalist Fabrizio Romano, the relationship between Osimhen and Napoli has reached a breaking point. Romano described the situation as “completely broken,” with both parties now seeking a resolution. This comes as a surprise, given Osimhen’s importance to the team and his recent contract renewal, which was supposed to cement his place as Napoli’s talisman for years to come.
The decision to exclude Osimhen from the squad for the Parma clash, made by Napoli’s manager Antonio Conte, is seen as a direct response to the failed transfer. Conte, who is known for his uncompromising approach, appears to be making a statement by leaving out one of his key players, further fueling the rumors of a fractured relationship.
The Aftermath of the Failed Transfer
The fallout from the failed transfer has been swift and severe. Just 24 hours after the Premier League transfer window closed without Osimhen’s move to Chelsea, Napoli made the shock decision to drop him from the squad. This move has led to widespread speculation about the striker’s future, with some suggesting that his time in Naples may be coming to an abrupt end.
Osimhen’s agent, Roberto Calenda, had previously downplayed the transfer rumors, stating that the player was committed to Napoli and had recently renewed his contract “with mutual satisfaction.” However, the latest developments suggest that all is not well behind the scenes. Calenda’s comments that Osimhen “is not a package to be shipped far away to make room for new prophets” now seem to ring hollow, as the player finds himself at odds with the club’s management.
Potential Saudi Pro League Move?
While the European transfer window has closed, there is still a possibility that Osimhen could secure a move away from Napoli. Clubs in the Saudi Pro League, where the transfer window remains open until September 2, have expressed interest in the striker. Al Ahli, in particular, had been linked with a move for Osimhen earlier in the week, and with his situation at Napoli deteriorating, a transfer to Saudi Arabia could become a viable option.
The Road Ahead for Osimhen and Napoli
The exclusion of Victor Osimhen from Napoli’s squad marks a dramatic turn in what has been a rollercoaster summer for the Nigerian international. Having helped Napoli achieve unprecedented success in recent years, the current situation represents a low point in his relationship with the club.
For Napoli, the decision to bench one of their star players could have significant repercussions, both on the pitch and off it. With tensions running high, it remains to be seen whether a resolution can be found, or if Osimhen’s future lies away from Naples.
As the Serie A season continues, all eyes will be on how this situation unfolds. Will Osimhen find a new home before the Saudi Pro League window closes? Or will Napoli and the player be forced to reconcile for the sake of their mutual success? One thing is certain: the drama surrounding Victor Osimhen is far from over.
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Source: Football.london