In the wake of persistent offers from Saudi club Al Ahli, the agent of Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, Roberto Calenda has issued a stern statement defending the star striker’s commitment to Napoli and European football.
Calenda emphasized that Osimhen, who was recently crowned African Footballer of the Year and finished 8th in the Ballon d’Or rankings, is not just a commodity to be “shipped far away” for financial gain. He underlined the importance of “respect and balance” in discussions about Osimhen’s future, stressing that the Nigerian international still has “so much to do in Europe.”
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The Napoli forward has reportedly rejected the lucrative Saudi proposals, with sources confirming that Osimhen’s camp has insisted on a significant release clause, without which any deal would be dead on arrival.
Despite major offers, Calenda noted that the player’s recent contract renewal with Napoli was done with “mutual satisfaction,” highlighting his commitment to continuing his historic impact at the club.
Calenda states:
!["Osimhen is not a Package to Ship!" — Agent blasts Napoli](https://topnaija.ng/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/457175707_1128591895734967_4162054870973030736_n.jpg)
“Victor Osimhen still has so much to do in Europe. Osimhen is a Napoli player, with his contract recently renewed with mutual satisfaction on club/player side.”
“He made history… and when there were major offers (also this year) we always accepted club’s decisions. Victor was elected African footballer of the year, 8th at the Ballon d’Or. There is need for respect and balance.”
Osimhen’s decision reflects a focus on legacy and competitiveness in Europe, rather than simply cashing in on the burgeoning Saudi Pro League. As speculation continues, it is clear that any move away from Napoli will only occur under the right conditions, preserving both Osimhen’s career ambitions and the integrity of his achievements in European football.