Former Napoli sporting director Mauro Meluso has firmly rejected allegations of racism raised by Nigerian striker Victor Osimhen, following renewed comments about the forward’s final months at the Italian club.

The dispute traces back to a controversial TikTok video posted by Napoli after Osimhen missed a penalty during the 2023–24 season.

Osimhen, now playing for Galatasaray, previously stated he was treated “like a dog” during his time in Naples and suggested the social media content carried racist undertones.

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The incident ignited widespread debate, with critics questioning the tone of the video and its broader implications.

Speaking to Radio Napoli Centrale, Meluso denied any discriminatory intent behind the clip.

He recalled that both he and Napoli’s communications director intervened to calm the striker, who was reportedly furious the day after the video surfaced.

“We were accused of racism, but there was nothing wrong with that; it was just a bit of irony,” Meluso said.

He emphasized that the club strongly opposes any form of discrimination and insisted that neither management nor supporters tolerate racist language.

Meluso acknowledged that the episode deeply affected Osimhen, particularly as it drew attention beyond football circles.

According to the former director, some Nigerian government representatives issued statements condemning the situation, which amplified media coverage internationally.

He described the controversy as being exaggerated and maintained that no one at Napoli intended to offend the striker.

Despite reassurances, the fallout marked a turning point in Osimhen’s relationship with the club.

The Nigerian forward had recently renewed his contract shortly before Christmas, signaling at the time a continued commitment to Napoli.

However, Meluso suggested that internal uncertainty about the club’s future plans added complexity to the situation.

Osimhen’s tenure in Naples was otherwise marked by extraordinary success.

He scored 76 goals in 133 appearances and played a pivotal role in securing Napoli’s historic 2022–23 Serie A title — their first league triumph in 33 years.

Yet, following the TikTok episode, tensions reportedly intensified between the player and the club hierarchy.

By the summer of 2024, Osimhen departed on loan to Galatasaray, where he delivered an impressive campaign in Turkey.

His performances paved the way for a permanent transfer, effectively closing his chapter in Italian football.

While Meluso insists the racism claims were unfounded, the saga underscores the growing influence of social media in shaping modern football narratives.

For Osimhen, the controversy appears to have served as both a personal and professional catalyst, propelling him toward a new phase of his career abroad.

As both sides continue to reflect on the episode, the dispute remains a reminder of how quickly digital content can escalate into international headlines.