
The Nigeria striker was reportedly linked to a number of clubs in Europe after his outstanding debut campaign in Ligue 1 with Lille where he notched 13 goals in 27 games.
However, before he penned a five-year deal with Napoli earlier this month, Osimhen noted the ‘father figure’ roles by Gattuso and De Laurentiis as the persuading factors for him.
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“Playing for Napoli is a dream come true and [Aurelio] De Laurentiis and [Gennaro] Gattuso have welcomed me like a son,” he said during his media presentation.
The 21-year-old joined his new teammates for training this week at their pre-season camp in Castel di Sangro. He disclosed how he can fit into Gennaro Gattuso’s squad.
Osimhen admitted his initial worry about racism in the Italian city but the reception he got from fans has changed his perspective. “I was a bit skeptical because it’s something that affects the whole world,” he said.
“I’ve always been convinced that Napoli was the right choice for me right now and in the future. From both a personal and a playing perspective.”