Napoli manager Antonio Conte has once again emphasized that Super Eagles striker, Victor Osimhen is no longer part of the club’s plans and will not be reintegrated into the first team.
Osimhen, a Nigerian international, had expressed his desire to leave the Partenopei, and it was widely anticipated that he would secure a move during the 2024 summer transfer window.
Despite being a highly sought-after striker in Europe, with reported interest from clubs such as Chelsea, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United, and Liverpool, Osimhen’s potential departure did not materialize by the close of the transfer window on August 30.
While Chelsea seemed poised to be his likely destination, the possibility of a move to Saudi Arabian club Al-Ahli also surfaced. However, a reported breakdown in negotiations, with Napoli demanding an additional €5 million on top of the agreed €80 million transfer fee, reportedly thwarted Osimhen’s potential move to Al-Ahli.
As the 2024-2025 season progresses, Conte has affirmed that neither Osimhen nor other sidelined players will be reconsidered for the team, despite not being able to reinforce the squad as initially planned.
Conte expressed regret over the situation, acknowledging the club’s efforts and consistency. He praised the club’s steadfastness despite the financial implications and reiterated the importance of adhering to the rules and decisions made.
The Italian tactician said, “I’m sorry about what happened. I’m sorry for Osimhen. I’m sorry for the club that didn’t monetize. I am sorry for myself because we didn’t complete the team as we wanted, but the club proved to be consistent in this situation.
“Coherence is the starting point when it comes to respecting the rules. The club proved consistent, so I praise them for this attitude.”
On the possibility of Victor Osimhen returning to the team, Antonio Conte said: “No, this is the team. This is the group.
“We made decisions. I mentioned coherence before. Those who are not consistent don’t respect the rules. I repeat, respect to the club. The president proved consistent despite losing important money—credit where credit is due.
“The club were consistent, knowing that if the situation had been unlocked earlier, we would all have been advantaged. As I said, we’ve started rebuilding. Good players arrived. They were on the table. It took us time to understand and think about it, but we signed them, and I am happy. We didn’t do everything, and it’s okay, but I think the club did well.”
With the transfer window closed in most major European leagues, Osimhen faces an uncertain period, at least until the next window opens in January. However, there is still a possibility of a transfer as the Saudi Arabian and Turkish transfer windows remain open for a limited period beyond the major European leagues’ deadlines.
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