In the vibrant city of Naples, the euphoria surrounding Victor Osimhen, the star striker of Napoli and the Super Eagles, has reached unparalleled heights, Soccernet.ng reports.
The enthusiasm has spread like wildfire, engulfing not only football fans but also the local zoological community.
In a touching and significant gesture, the Naples Zoo has chosen to bestow the name “Victor” upon a recently born black Jaguar, according to Tutto Napoli.
This symbolic act pays tribute to Nigeria's football sensation, Osimhen, while also shedding light on the conservation needs of this endangered species.
The birth of this young Jaguar, a remarkable specimen of the Panthera onca species, is both a cause for celebration and concern for the Naples Zoo.
The International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has classified the Panthera onca as “near threatened” (NT), indicating the constant dangers it faces in its struggle for survival, primarily due to habitat loss and other human-induced factors.
Seizing the moment, the Napoli Zoo has taken to its social media channel to underscore the significance of this naming event.
By drawing a special connection to Osimhen, the zoo aims to raise awareness about the fragility of the Jaguar's existence and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
The decision to name the Jaguar after Osimhen is but one example of the many ways Neapolitans have embraced the footballer's success and impact on the Campania region in Italy.
Osimhen's influence led Napoli to clinch their third Scudetto title this season, an achievement that has garnered admiration in numerous forms.
Fans have paid tribute by donning masks replicating Osimhen's distinctive on-pitch look, while kids have dyed their hair a golden hue, mirroring the striker's style.
Several statues and magnificent murals depicting Osimhen have been erected and displayed throughout Naples, with one particularly celebrated mural in Castel Volturno.
Yet, uncertainty looms over Osimhen's future in Napoli. At 24, he remains a highly sought-after talent, with PSG eyeing him closely.
The Parisian club has already seen a €100 million bid rejected by Napoli. With their public dispute with Kylian Mbappe, it seems likely that they will return with an improved offer for Osimhen.
Whether he stays in Napoli to further etch himself into the hearts and folklore of the Neapolitans or embarks on a new journey with PSG, only time will tell.
Should Osimhen continue his stay in Napoli, the expectation will rest heavily upon his shoulders as he leads the club's pursuit of a fourth league title.
