Why Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi rejected Napoli: Inside story

Napoli’s search for a high-quality replacement after Kvicha Kvaratskhelia’s move to PSG led them to Borussia Dortmund’s dynamic Nigerian-German winger, Karim Adeyemi. The Italian giants offered Dortmund €50 million, a 66% increase on the fee the Bundesliga club originally paid RB Salzburg in 2022.

While Dortmund were reportedly open to the deal, Adeyemi ultimately rejected the move. Soccernet.ng has exclusively uncovered the key reasons behind his decision to turn down a six million euros salary in Naples to remain in Dortmund.

His wife’s influence and family stability

In December 2024, Adeyemi privately married Swiss-Albanian rapper Loredana Zefi, becoming a stepfather to her six-year-old daughter. Stability is paramount to his wife, and she strongly preferred to remain in Germany rather than relocate to Naples. Family considerations played a decisive role in his refusal.

The FIFA Club World Cup factor

Borussia Dortmund will compete in the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States this summer, while Napoli will not. This prestigious tournament is a rare opportunity for Adeyemi to showcase his talent on a global stage, particularly with hopes of securing a spot in the German national team. Rather than opting for time off, he saw this as a chance to make a lasting impression.

Napoli’s no exit clause policy

Napoli’s refusal to include an exit clause in the proposed contract was one of the biggest deal-breakers. Adeyemi and his representatives insisted on a clause allowing him to leave if bigger clubs came calling, but Napoli declined. This raised concerns that he could be in a situation similar to Kalidou Koulibaly or face contract-related disputes like Victor Osimhen.

The Osimhen warning Sign

Napoli’s treatment of star striker Victor Osimhen has not gone unnoticed by African players. Adeyemi’s camp reportedly consulted someone close to the Osimhen family, who confirmed their concerns. The way Napoli handled Osimhen—a player who led them to their first Serie A title in 33 years—was a red flag for Adeyemi’s team. They feared he could face similar disrespect and career uncertainty if he joined the club.

Our people say a dry morsel of swallow with contentment is better than promised riches. Rather than risking an uncertain future, Karim chose to stay in Germany, where he remains a key player for Borussia Dortmund.