Napoli have released a statement to refute claims that they permitted the release of a kids toy named “Cicciobello Bomber”.
The club have claimed that they did not authorize the production of a doll that bears a conspicuous resemblance to forward Victor Osimhen.
The doll has been seen across social media and many have likened it to Osimhen, as it has noticeable features of the Nigerian’s appearance.
It includes a protective mask worn by Victor Osimhen, with the number “9” imprinted on it.
The doll was also clothed in a light blue jersey, similar to that of Napoli, and a blonde shock of curly hair, similar to that of the Nigerian international.
Its name “Cicciobello Bomber” means “cute and cuddly striker” and Giochi Preziosi is the company behind it.
Giochi Preziosi is an Italian company that produces toys and TV series based on the toys they produce.
The company is owned by Enrico Preziosi, the former chairman of Genoa, Italy’s oldest football club.
Napoli denies involvement in production of toy with resemblance to Victor Osimhen
Anyway, Napoli’s statement denying having any involvement in the production of the doll reads:
“With reference to the news, which appeared on numerous online information sites, relating to the imminent marketing of a children’s game called “Cicciobello Bomber” – a doll that reproduces the features of the player Victor Osimhen, portrayed wearing a uniform clearly referable to the shirt from the Club’s first team – the SSCN specifies that this is an unofficial product, the creation of which has not been authorized in any way by the Club.”
The Neapolitans also added that they would be suing the Italian top company for image rights infringement.
Osimhen and Napoli relationship
Meanwhile, this is another rocky development from the staples of Napoli around Victor Osimhen.
September was filled with a litany of unpalatable stories regarding Osimhen and his relationship with the Serie A champions.
It began with his petulant reaction to being substituted by manager Rudi Garcia in Napoli’s 0-0 draw with Bologna on September 24, 2023.
Following the draw at the Stadio Renato Dall’Ara, the Neapolitan’s social media team took to TikTok on September 27, 2023, to post videos that were supposedly intended to mock Victor Osimhen.
The 24-year-old was infuriated by the happenings and he remained mum until October 1, 2023.
Osimhen released a lengthy statement reaffirming his commitment to Napoli, and he also expressed that he would not allow anyone to come between him and his supporters.
An excerpt from the statement reads: “The People of Napoli have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us”.
That statement appeared to signal the end of his squabble with the club, with president Aurelio De Laurentiis also insisting that the relationship between Victor Osimhen and Napoli is rosy.
The former VFL Wolfsburg forward has scored 5 goals and provided 1 assist in 9 appearances for The Partenopei this season.
