Following the departure of a few influential personalities in the dressing room of the Neapolitans, the Super Eagles striker could become a point of reference for his teammates
Italian midfielder Matteo Politano is convinced that Napoli teammate Victor Osimhen can step into the leadership roles vacated by the departed trio of Kalidou Koulibaly, Lorenzo Insigne, and Dries Mertens.
Osimhen only arrived in Naples two years ago from Lille for a club and African record transfer fee. And at 23, the Super Eagles striker is already the face of Napoli.
Who are Napoli’s departed leaders?
Napoli lost three of their best and most influential players this summer. Chelsea picked up veteran defender and Senegal international Kalidou for €38 million.
Club captain and Italian playmaker Lorenzo Insigne left for the MLS to join Toronto FC on a free transfer.
And Napoli refused to extend the contract of Belgian forward Dries Mertens, who this week said his goodbyes.
Italian fullback Giovanni Di Lorenzo has been named the new captain of Napoli, but more leaders are needed on and off the pitch.
Is Osimhen ready for added responsibility?
Italian winger Matteo Politano strongly believes that Napoli already have a player in Osimhen who can lead the club in the absence of the departed stars.
The former Inter Milan ace has charged the Nigerian striker to take the mantle of leadership and join Di Lorenzo in leading Napoli to great heights.
“Great leaders have left, but this year someone else can take their place,” the 29-year-old Politano said, as per Tutto Napoli.
“Osimhen must be calm and think about doing well on the pitch; he is a point of reference; he must become our leader both on and off the pitch.
“Di Lorenzo is a silent captain; he is special: perfect for that responsibility.”
Osimhen has already assumed the role of Napoli’s number one penalty taker ahead of the new campaign.