Super Eagles star apologises after facing backlash for abusive gesture

Nigerian forward Umar Sadiq has issued an apology following an uproar caused by an abusive social media post, Soccernet.ng reports.

Over the weekend,  Sadiq shared, and subsequently deleted, an image featuring a middle finger—widely regarded as an offensive gesture.

The intent behind the post remains unclear, but there were speculations it was aimed at Real Sociedad after rumours surfaced about the club no longer requiring his services.

Sadiq later clarified in an apology post that the gesture was a mistake and not directed at anyone.

“Apology for my recent post; it was a post by mistake; I didn’t do it intentionally. I am not referring to something or against anyone,” he wrote. “Thank you for your understanding. Y’all should stay blessed.”

This incident is not the first time Sadiq has faced social media controversy. In 2022, he spoke out against online bullying from Nigerian fans.

Sadiq joined Real Sociedad from Almeria in the summer of 2022 for a reported €20 million. He had a promising start to the 2022-2023 season, netting three goals in five matches, including a debut goal against Atletico Madrid.

However, his progress was halted by an injury that sidelined him for 11 months, and he has struggled to regain his form since.

Amid uncertainty about his future at the Anoeta Stadium, Sadiq expressed a desire to leave the club in May. There was speculation about a potential move to Getafe during the summer, but no concrete developments have materialised.