Napoli Director Admits Mistake in Handling Victor Osimhen's Transfer Last Summer

In a candid admission, Napoli’s director Mauro Moliso has acknowledged that the club made a significant error in their handling of Victor Osimhen’s transfer last summer. The 25-year-old Nigerian striker was a hot commodity following an outstanding 2022/23 season, during which he scored 26 goals in 32 league matches, playing a pivotal role in Napoli’s Scudetto triumph.

Despite his stellar performance and the subsequent surge in interest from top European clubs, including a substantial offer from a major team, Napoli chose not to part ways with Osimhen. Moliso, who joined the club in mid-July, reflected on this decision, noting that the offer on the table was considerable. He admitted that, with the benefit of hindsight, the decision to retain Osimhen might not have been the wisest.

In a recent interview with Sportitalia, Moliso expressed regret over the missed opportunity: “We made some mistakes in Osimhen’s management. I arrived in Naples in mid-July and I knew that there had been a very high offer from one of the biggest teams in Europe. In hindsight, we are all good, but perhaps we could have sold him.”

The striker’s current situation is further complicated by his new contract, signed last December, which includes a hefty release clause of €130 million. This high valuation has effectively deterred potential suitors, leaving Osimhen’s future with Napoli uncertain.

As Napoli navigates this complex scenario, the club’s decision to hold onto Osimhen, despite the lucrative offer, raises questions about their long-term strategy and the financial implications of their choices.