Real Sociedad v FC Barcelona, Barca - La Liga EA Sports Umar Sadiq centre-forward of Real Sociedad and Nigeria during the LaLiga match between Real Sociedad and FC Barcelona at Reale Arena on November 10, 2024 in San Sebastian, Spain. San Sebastian Basque country Spain. Photo by IMAGO
Valencia CF have officially registered Nigerian striker Umar Sadiq with La Liga, paving the way for the forward to potentially make his debut in tonight’s Copa del Rey Round of 32 tie against CD Eldense, Soccernet.ng reports.
The 26-year-old joined Valencia on loan from Real Sociedad with an option for a permanent transfer, and head coach Carlos Corberán has indicated that he is ready to contribute immediately.
Sadiq’s arrival at the Mestalla was confirmed on Saturday, January 4, with the formalities of his registration finalised earlier today (January 7), as noted on La Liga’s official website.
The Nigerian’s inclusion in the squad for tonight’s clash at the Nuevo Pepico Amat stadium signals a quick integration into Corberán’s plans, despite having only participated in limited training sessions since his move.
Valencia have also called up several youth players, including Iker Córdoba, Rubén Iranzo, Martín Tejón, and Vicent Abril, for tonight’s cup fixture.
Sadiq, however, is expected to command the spotlight, with fans eager to see how the former Almería and Partizan Belgrade striker fits into the team’s attacking framework.
Speaking ahead of the cup tie, Corberán expressed confidence in Sadiq’s readiness and praised the attitude he has brought to the team since joining.
“He’s fit to compete. He arrived with the attitude every Valencia player should have—willing to contribute. All new players who join us are welcome if they come with self-demand and an awareness of the responsibility they will carry. We will expect the maximum from them,” said Corberán as per Informacion.
Sadiq himself has shown determination to make an impact.
“Valencia and I are hungry, and now I need consistency,” he stated after his unveiling, hinting at his ambitions to thrive with the Mestalla outfit.
Looking beyond tonight, Sadiq is likely to make his La Liga debut on Saturday when Valencia travel to face Sevilla.
The match offers an early opportunity for the forward to impress in league action as Valencia seeks to strengthen their position in the table.