Napoli's first win overshadowed by Victor Osimhen’s continued banishment

Victor Osimhen missed another Napoli clash.

Napoli's first win overshadowed by Victor Osimhen’s continued banishment

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 21:23 - 25.08.2024

Napoli continued life under new manager Antonio Conte without club icon Bologna.

Napoli has finally secured their first win of the 2024/2025 Serie A season under new manager Antonio Conte, but the victory has been overshadowed by the continued absence of star striker Victor Osimhen.

The dethroned champions managed a 3-0 victory over Bologna at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on Sunday night, with goals coming from Giovanni Di Lorenzo, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and Giovanni Simeone.

Pulse Sports Nigeria reports that this win marks a significant improvement from their 3-0 defeat in the season opener at Hellas Verona last weekend.

However, the talking point remains the conspicuous absence of Nigerian international and club icon Osimhen.

Victor Osimhen
Napoli striker Victor Osimhen has not played for the club this season. | IMAGO PSG have reportedly renewed their Victor Osimhen interest (Credit: Imago)

The 25-year-old striker, who has been a pivotal figure for Napoli in recent seasons, was once again left out of the squad amid ongoing transfer speculation.

Conte, the former Inter Milan boss who recently took charge at Napoli, has distanced himself from Osimhen's uncertain future. The striker has made it clear he desires a move away from the club, with Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain reportedly showing interest.

Antonio Conte is still playing without Osimhen but finally has a win. (Photo Credit: Imago)

The new manager's decision to sideline Osimhen has led to a period of adjustment for Napoli, as evidenced by their struggles in the opening match.

However, Sunday's win suggests the team might be finding its footing even without their talismanic forward who could lose his place further to former Inter Milan forward Romelu Lukaku.

Khvicha Kvaratskhelia shines with Osimhen for Napoli.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia shines with Osimhen for Napoli.

Osimhen's situation continues to be a point of contention for Napoli fans and a challenge for the club's management.

As the transfer window nears its close, all eyes will be on whether the Nigerian striker secures a move or if a resolution can be found to reintegrate him into Conte's plans.

For now, Napoli will hope to build on this victory as they navigate a season of transition under Conte's leadership, with or without their club icon Osimhen.