By Jimmy
Napoli’s social media executive, Alessio Fortino, has resigned from his role amid backlash over the video mocking Victor Osimhen on the club’s TikTok handle.
Recall that there was outrage on and off social media after Napoli posted a video of Osimhen on its social media handle which appeared to troll the Nigerian player for missing a penalty kick in their 0-0 draw against Bologna.
The viral video caught the attention of football fans across the world even as Osimhen himself removed all Napoli-related posts from his Instagram account and his agent Roberto Calenda threatened legal action.
The Nigerian government also joined in reacting to the development, saying it would reach out to the government of Italy, Napoli, and Osimhen over the issue.
READ: I will fight for Osimhen, other oppressed athletes – Nigerian Sports Minister
Osimhen has been Napoli’s talisman since he joined the club. He was the club and Serie A’s leading scorer with 26 goals last season as Napoli won their first Scudetto in 33 years.
The Super Eagles star, however, was humiliated in two video clips posted by Napoli. The first of the videos showed the 24-year-old striker begging for a penalty, with sped-up, child-like audio captioned ‘Gimme penalty please’ before showing him firing the spot-kick wide.
A second video from the club’s account compared Osimhen to a ‘coconut’. This was widely viewed as a racial slur.
Although Osimhen has played in two matches since then and scored in both, and Napoli has claimed they meant no harm, Fortino has apparently paid with his job for the ill-advised action.
Confirming his decision on Instagram, Fortino wrote: “Today, after 805 days, my professional adventure with SSC Naples ends. For many, this job would be comparable to a dream, for me, it was a simple daily reality: a reality built on commitment and fueled by the constant desire to learn and play.
“I cannot help but express my deepest gratitude to all the colleagues, collaborators, partners and supporters I’ve met along this long journey for making this experience so special.
“Leaving the company with a baggage of great memories and an excitement for the new adventures that lie ahead. Thanks again for everything, and see you soon! Alessio.”
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According to Italian outlet Il Corriere dello Sport, Osimhen is believed to have received a private apology from Napoli directors on Wednesday for the club’s behaviour on social media.
