Thierry Henry blasts Napoli over Victor Osimhen TikTok video saga, claims club is racist

Arsenal legend Thierry Henry believes Napoli's viral TikTok video reaction to Victor Osimhen's penalty miss against Bologna was racially inspired.

The Italian champions posted a video mocking their Nigerian attacker but took it down hours later after massive criticisms from fans.

Henry described the act by Napoli and 'offensive' and 'stupid', insisting it was a premeditated move by the club.

"It's wrong on every level. First and foremost it is your own team, that's the TikTok thing. This is what you do to your own player. What is this?," he lamented on CBS Sports Golazo.

"Second of all, third of all and everything, then yes of all it is," he replied Kate Abdo after she quizzed if it is racist.

"Do your due diligence, don't get upset and by the way, so it's not a reaction. You made a video, so it is not the reaction which is stupid and shocking but it is a reaction, you thought about it and you have an idea. Really. Yes it is racist," he added.

"It's wrong on every level... It's your own team! What are we talking about here?"

Thierry Henry is stunned by Napoli's social media treatment of star striker Victor Osimhen. pic.twitter.com/txK5ZoFzve

— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) October 3, 2023

Napoli have since apologized to the player with Osimhen releasing a statement to expressing his feeling about the entire event.

“Coming to the City of Naples in 2020 was a wonderful decision for me. The People of Napoli have shown me so much love and kindness, and I will not allow anyone to come between us. The passion of the People of Naples fuels my fire to always play with my heart and soul, and the love for the badge is unwavering as I wear it with pride. The accusations against People of Naples are untrue," wrote the striker on Instagram, as quoted by GOAL.

"I have a lot of friends that are Napolitans and have become part of my family and everyday life. I appreciate Nigerians and everyone for leading their voices to support and reach out to me. I’m forever grateful. Let’s support unity, respect and understanding. FORZA NAPOLI SEMPRE.”

The Super Eagles star has gone on to score two goals in back-to-back game for the Naples outfit.

Napoli lost their game on Tuesday night against Real Madrid in the UEFA Champions League.