Former Napoli sporting director Mauro Meluso has rejected accusations of racism levelled by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, following comments from the Galatasaray forward about his final months at the Italian club.
Osimhen claimed he was treated “like a dog” during his time in Naples and suggested that a controversial TikTok video posted by Napoli after he missed a penalty carried racist undertones. The incident sparked international debate and became a key factor in the striker’s exit from the club in 2024.
Meluso spoke to Radio Napoli Centrale to defend the club, insisting there was no intention to insult or humiliate Osimhen.
The former director emphasised Napoli’s stance against discrimination. He said, “He took it very badly, but woe betide anyone who dared to use racist language: Napoli abhors any form of racism. And so do the people of the city.”
Despite scoring 76 goals in 133 appearances and helping Napoli secure the 2022-23 Serie A title, their first in 33 years, the relationship between Osimhen and the club deteriorated after the TikTok episode. Meluso acknowledged the emotional toll on the striker but maintained the situation was misunderstood.
