Real Sociedad have embarked on a renewed effort to restore Umar Sadiq's reputation and confidence as the club’s key striker, Soccernet.ng reports.
Following a summer filled with uncertainty and transfer speculation, where the Nigerian forward struggled to attract significant interest from other clubs, Real Sociedad's president, Jokin Aperribay, has shifted focus.
Instead of seeking a transfer, Aperribay is now concentrating on revamping Sadiq's image and reintegrating him into the squad, according to Elgol Digital.
The decision to retain Sadiq comes as the transfer window nears its end, with Aperribay recognising the need to work closely with the player to maximize his potential.
After a season in which he failed to find his best form, Sadiq attracted criticism from fans in recent weeks after sharing a controversial image on social media.
The former AS Roma striker looked set to leave Real Sociedad this summer after attracting interest from clubs in Spain and Greece.
However, nothing came out of those transfer speculations and Real Sociedad appear willing to hand him another chance to prove he can fill the crucial No. 9 role that the club desperately need.
Sadiq joined Real Sociedad in 2022 after an excellent spell at Almeria, a club he fired to La Liga with his goals.
Sadiq's first few days at Real Sociedad were equally promising, with a debut goal against Atlético Madrid shortly after his arrival in September 2022.
However, a severe injury in a La Liga match against Getafe sidelined him for the rest of the season.
During the 2023–24 campaign, Sadiq gradually returned to action, scoring his first goal of the season in a victory over Sevilla and following it up with another spectacular strike against Osasuna.
Still, the season ended in disappointment as Sadiq only registered three goals and one assist in 26 league appearances.
Real Sociedad will look to get the 27-year-old back to his best form and help improve their sixth-place finish in La Liga last season.
