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Osimhen continues to be linked with a move away from Napoli this summer following a historic campaign with the club last season.
Aside from Jude Bellingham's deal with Real Madrid, we have not had a big-money move in the transfer market this summer.
However, with the transfer window still about two months before shutting down, there is a feeling that something big could still happen.
One of the potential big-money transfers that could still happen involves Nigeria’s very own Victor Osimhen.
Osimhen has been linked with a move away from Napoli, with the likes of Bayern Munich, Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester United and Real Madrid monitoring his situation.
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The Nigerian striker had the best season of his professional campaign last year after scoring 26 league goals to lead Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years.
His performances have caught the attention of Europe’s top clubs, who are now ready to pounce on his services.
However, while a move to a bigger club is tempting, we take a look at why Osimhen may fail if he leaves Napoli this summer.
His new home may not be like Naples
Indeed, the lure of clubs like Real Madrid, Manchester United or Bayern Munich may be bigger than Napoli’s, but it is unlikely that Osimhen get the same amount of love he has received in Naples at any of these clubs.
Osimhen has been treated like Naples’ very own ever since he joined Napoli for a club-record fee of €75m.
He has always received the love of the city, which elevated him to god-like status after leading them to their first league title since the days of Maradona in 1990.
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It is important to note that it has always been like this even before the league title. The stadium goes crazy every time he scores.
Osimhen joined Napoli n 2020 for a club-record fee but never truly justified his price tag until last season.
Yet, the club fans never held that against him, loving him even in difficult times. Osimhen may/will not get this kind of love should he move to a bigger club, especially where the stakes are higher, and there’s more pressure.
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Lazio manager Maurizio Sarri shared the same view in a recent interview, urging the Nigerian to stay at Napoli because of the bond they both share.
Having the whole city behind you plays a role in a player’s success at any club.
Adapting to a new style
One of the reasons why Osimhen succeeded in the just-concluded season is because Napoli played to his strength.
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17:35 - 08.05.2023
5 reasons why Victor Osimhen should leave Napoli
The Super Eagles star has been linked with a move away from Napoli this summer following a record-breaking season.
With the likes of Lorenzo Insigne and Dries Mertens gone, Osimhen became Napoli’s main man up front.
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The arrival of Khvicha Kvaratskhelia also helped, with the Georgian playing the perfect supporting role for Osimhen.
However, Osimhen may not have this perfect supporting cast should he switch clubs this summer.
Considering he is expected to cost huge money, the Nigerian striker will be expected to adapt to the new style quickly, which may not work out.
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07:17 - 05.07.2023
Disrespectful!!! Fans react as Osimhen ranks 4th on ESPN's list of best strikers in the world
Super Eagles and Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has been ranked the 4th best striker in the world in ESPN's annual FC 100 list.
Playing the supporting role
Before last season Osimhen was not the main player at Napoli. But after Insigne, Mertens and Koulibaly left, he became a key figure before solidifying his status with an unforgettable season.
Right now, there is no one more valuable than Osimhen in Napoli’s squad. However, should he leave the club this summer, he is unlikely to take on the same role irrespective of the money spent on him.
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There are already established players on the roster of the potential clubs interested in his services, meaning he will need to play well and win trophies to earn their respect.
Also, with so many world-class players competing for positions, it is unlikely that they will put the ball on a plate for Osimhen to score.
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12:50 - 06.07.2023
'He won’t find again in his career’- Ex-Chelsea boss Sarri on Osimhen
Maurizio Sarri, the current boss of Lazio, has urged Osimhen to be careful following an incredible season with Napoli.
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18:12 - 04.07.2023
Victor Osimhen: Why are clubs not lining up to sign the Napoli marksman?
Victor Osimhen may have to bide his time at Napoli. A destination transfer may not happen this summer despite another year of change in Naples.
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