“Big mistake” — Napoli president regrets Osimhen sale

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has expressed his regrets over the transfer of Nigeria international Victor Osimhen to Galatasaray.

The enterprising attacker secured a permanent move to the Turkish giants last summer following an impressive loan spell at the club.

Since joining Galatasaray on a permanent deal, Osimhen has established himself as a key member of the team, while Napoli continues to struggle in the ongoing campaign.

Speaking in an interview, De Laurentiis disclosed that Napoli had received a staggering €200 million offer from Paris Saint-Germain and other suitors for a combined deal involving Osimhen and Georgian star Khvicha Kvaratskhelia.

At the time, the club faced a defining decision, whether to cash in on both attacking stars or preserve part of their core.

And according to De Laurentiis, Conte played a decisive role in the transfer of the Nigeria international.

“When we started with Conte, we received an offer of €200m from PSG and others to sell Osimhen and Kvara together,” he revealed. “Conte said, ‘Osimhen you can sell, but please don’t sell Kvara.’”

Napoli ultimately followed the manager’s recommendation, opting to part ways with Osimhen while holding on to Kvaratskhelia, widely regarded as one of the most technically gifted wingers in Europe.

However, with hindsight, De Laurentiis now views that decision as a misstep: “Big mistake,” he admitted bluntly.

The Napoli president went further, explaining that the aftermath of the decision created unexpected complications behind the scenes — particularly involving Kvaratskhelia’s camp.

“Because after, I had big trouble with Kvara’s father and agent,” he added, hinting at tensions that arose despite the club choosing to retain the Georgian forward.

Osimhen’s departure marked the end of an era for Napoli. The Nigerian striker had been a central figure in the club’s recent successes, known for his explosive pace, physical dominance, and crucial goals. Letting him go — especially as part of a broader strategic decision — has now become a point of reflection at the highest level of the club.

For Conte, the preference was clear at the time: build the team around Kvaratskhelia’s creativity and flair. But football decisions are rarely straightforward, and Napoli’s experience highlights how even calculated choices can carry unintended consequences.

De Laurentiis’ remarks offer a rare glimpse into the internal dynamics of elite football decision-making — where massive financial offers, managerial influence, and player relationships intersect.