Umar Sadiq centre-forward of Real Sociedad and Nigeria. Photo by IMAGO
Nigeria and Valencia striker Sadiq Umar has been rewarded for his exceptional performances in March with nominations for two of La Liga’s most prestigious awards, Soccernet.ng reports.
The Super Eagles forward is among the contenders for the La Liga Player of the Month and Goal of the Month awards, following his immediate impact since joining Valencia on loan from Real Sociedad.
Despite one round of fixtures still remaining in March, La Liga has announced the final shortlist for the Player of the Month, with Sadiq making the cut alongside Real Madrid’s Kylian Mbappé, Real Betis playmaker Isco, Celta Vigo’s Marcos Alonso, and Rayo Vallecano’s Pedro Díaz.
Sadiq has played a crucial role in Valencia’s revival following their humiliating 7-1 defeat to Barcelona in February.
Since then, Valencia have clawed their way back into the fight for La Liga survival, collecting 12 points in their last seven games—one more than both Atlético Madrid and Real Madrid over the same period.
Valencia’s resurgence has been largely driven by the attacking duo of Sadiq and Diego López. The pair have combined to score all of the club’s goals in their last five La Liga matches, with Sadiq’s contribution proving invaluable.
In the 1-1 draw against Villarreal, the Nigerian salvaged a crucial point with a well-taken header. Though Valencia suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Atlético Madrid, they bounced back in stunning fashion against Osasuna in early March.
That match saw Sadiq score twice, including a breathtaking backheel equaliser in the 87th minute that earned Valencia a dramatic 3-3 draw. His audacious finish from Sergi Canós’ low cross stunned the Osasuna defence and left the goalkeeper with no chance — a goal that is now a strong contender for La Liga’s Goal of the Month award.
Sadiq continued his fine form by netting in Valencia’s 2-0 victory over Valladolid, capitalising on a defensive error to seal the win after López had opened the scoring.
With three goals in March, Sadiq has outscored most of his rivals for the Player of the Month award. Only Mbappé, who also scored three times for Real Madrid, matches his tally. Meanwhile, Isco and Alonso have each netted twice, with Díaz managing just one goal.
While Mbappé and Sadiq are the big favourites for the Player of the Month honour given his high-profile status, the Super Eagles striker is the frontrunner for the Goal of the Month prize. His sublime backheel against Osasuna is widely considered the standout strike from the nominees.
Sadiq’s impressive performances have also strengthened his case for a permanent move to Valencia.
The 28-year-old has now scored four goals in eight La Liga appearances for the club, along with one goal in the Copa del Rey.
His impact has not gone unnoticed by Valencia’s new president, Kiat Lim, who is seriously considering triggering the purchase option in his loan deal.
Under the terms of the agreement with Real Sociedad, Valencia can sign Sadiq permanently for €9 million. The structure of the deal is favourable for the club, allowing them to pay in instalments rather than a lump sum.
The first payment of €1.8 million would be due in July, followed by similar payments in February and July of 2026 and 2027.
Additionally, Valencia have already paid €0.5 million for his loan and will owe another €0.5 million if they secure La Liga survival. Real Sociedad would also receive further bonuses depending on Sadiq’s goals and minutes played.
For now, the decision rests with Valencia’s owners in Singapore, who will determine whether the club moves ahead with the €9 million deal.
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