Umar, Nigeria's forward, secures double award nominations

Posted : 21 March 2025

Since arriving at Valencia on loan from Real Sociedad, Sadiq Umar has quickly established himself as a crucial figure in the club’s battle against relegation. His ability to score vital goals has reignited the team’s belief and given the fans renewed hope. The Nigerian forward’s presence has been a game-changer, and his contributions have been instrumental in Valencia’s recent resurgence.

March has been a defining month for Sadiq, as his outstanding performances have earned him nominations for two prestigious La Liga awards—Player of the Month and Goal of the Month. His impact at the club has been undeniable, placing him among the league’s top performers. Competing against some of the biggest names in Spanish football, Sadiq’s rise has been nothing short of remarkable.

Following a difficult 7-1 defeat to Barcelona in February, Valencia needed inspiration, and Sadiq provided just that. His arrival brought an immediate spark, helping the team collect 12 points from seven matches, surpassing even Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid in that period. His connection with Diego López has been particularly vital, with the duo combining to score all of Valencia’s goals in their last five games.

Sadiq’s performances in March have showcased his skill and determination. In a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Villarreal, he salvaged a crucial point with a towering header. Although Valencia suffered a 3-0 loss to Atlético Madrid, Sadiq responded in style against Osasuna, scoring an audacious backheel equalizer in the 87th minute. That moment of brilliance is now a strong contender for La Liga’s Goal of the Month. He followed up with another crucial goal against Valladolid, sealing a 2-0 victory.

With three goals in March, Sadiq has matched the scoring output of Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé, further proving his importance to Valencia. Competing for Player of the Month, he finds himself alongside elite names like Mbappé, Isco, Marcos Alonso, and Pedro Díaz. While others may have star power, Sadiq’s influence on a struggling Valencia side has arguably been more impactful, making him a key figure in their fight for survival.

His impressive form has not gone unnoticed by Valencia’s management, with reports suggesting that club president Kiat Lim is considering activating the €9 million purchase clause in his loan deal. The proposed structure would allow Valencia to pay in installments, making the move financially viable. However, the final decision rests with the club’s owners in Singapore, who must weigh Sadiq’s contributions against their long-term plans.

As the season nears its end, Sadiq’s future remains uncertain. Whether he stays at Valencia or returns to Real Sociedad, one thing is clear—he has proven his worth at the highest level. With his eyes set on ensuring Valencia’s safety and securing personal accolades, Sadiq Umar’s journey in La Liga is far from over, and the football world is taking notice.

Umar, Nigeria's forward, secures double award nominations

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