Valencia CF has officially decided not to offer a contract extension to Nigerian international Umar Sadiq. Bringing his loan spell at the Mestalla to an end. The Super Eagles striker, who joined from Real Sociedad in January, played a crucial role in Valencia’s late-season resurgence. But will now return to his parent club after the club opted not to exercise their purchase option.
Valencia’s decision was influenced primarily by financial considerations. Despite Sadiq’s positive impact, scoring five goals in sixteen La Liga appearances and helping steer the club clear of relegation, the club found his salary demands too high to handle. Valencia had covered Sadiq’s full salary during the loan. It amounted to nearly two million euros net, and they also paid an initial loan fee of half a million euros. Not to mention the additional costs triggered by performance clauses. The option to buy, set at around €10 million, was ultimately unsustainable. Particularly due to the club’s current financial strategy.
Sadiq is not alone in facing the exit door. Valencia has also decided against retaining several other loaned players, including Iván Jaime and Enzo Barrenechea. The club seeks to recalibrate its squad and reduce reliance on high-cost, short-term signings. This approach reflects broader challenges in squad planning, as the club’s heavy reliance on loan deals creates uncertainty and complicates long-term team building.
What’s Next for Sadiq?
With his future at Real Sociedad uncertain, Sadiq faces a crossroads. While he is set to return to San Sebastián, it remains unclear whether he will be reintegrated into the squad or seek a move elsewhere, possibly to a club willing to meet his financial expectations.
Sadiq’s stint at Valencia was arguably more productive than his time at Real Sociedad. In sixteen league matches for Valencia, he netted five goals, a significant contribution for a team battling relegation. In contrast, during his tenure at Real Sociedad, Sadiq managed four goals and one assist in thirty-five La Liga appearances. This stark difference highlights how the Nigerian forward thrived with more consistent playing time.
Given his strong showing at Valencia, interest from other La Liga sides or even clubs outside Spain could materialise in the coming weeks. Sadiq was not a part of the recent Unity Cup or friendly matches of the Super Eagles, and has not featured in the squad since the World Cup Qualifiers in March.