‘I made a mistake’: Osimhen apologises for breaching COVID-19 guidelines

Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has asked for forgiveness for his careless conduct which led to him contracting COVID-19.

The Napoli star was on break in Nigeria when he was spotted celebrating his 22nd birthday on 29 December without wearing a mask and without practising social distancing in contravention of coronavirus guidelines.

The guests at the party too were maskless and Osimhen tested positive for the highly infectious virus upon his return to Italy.

After severe backlash from Napoli fans and Nigerian football fans, Osimhen issued an apology on social media on Sunday.

 “I’m sorry for what has happened,” he wrote on Instagram. “I made a mistake in going to Nigeria at this moment, even though I have many affections there, starting with my brothers.

“I was wrong to participate in the surprise party not understanding the gravity of what I was doing. I apologise to the club, the coach, the team and the fans.”

Osimhen cost Napoli an African record transfer fee of €80m from Lille in the summer and is seen as the man to take them a step up.

He has however missed their last 11 matches after dislocating his shoulder on international duty in November.

He has contributed two goals and one assist in eight matches for the Serie A club.

Napoli have reportedly fined him two weeks’ wages for his misbehaviour.