Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq could be handed a second chance at Real Sociedad as the Basque club ushers in a new era under recently appointed head coach Sergio Francisco, Soccernet.ng reports.
Francisco, who has steadily risen through the ranks at the club since replacing Xabi Alonso at Real Sociedad B in 2022, will take charge of the first team from the 2025/26 season following Imanol Alguacil’s departure.
Sadiq joined Real Sociedad from Almería in 2022 for €20 million after a standout spell in LaLiga, and was expected to lead the line in San Sebastián. However, a serious injury early in his stint halted his progress, and he has since struggled to establish himself under Alguacil.
In January 2025, the 27-year-old was loaned to Valencia CF, where he has revived his form under Carlos Corberán.
The Nigerian striker has netted five La Liga goals this season and ranks joint-third on the club’s scoring chart despite joining midway through the campaign.
But Valencia may not trigger the €10 million purchase clause due to financial constraints imposed by owner Peter Lim.
✨ Umar Sadiq (28) has 5 La Liga goals for Valencia since signing on loan for them in January. ✅
— EuroFoot (@eurofootcom) April 19, 2025
Today he was substituted on in the 66th minute, then scored an equaliser in the 75th minute.
He's their 3rd highest goalscorer in the league this season. Important impact. pic.twitter.com/yKbgDzcUse
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Sadiq’s contract with Sociedad runs until 2028, and the club remains open to selling him.
However, if Valencia pass on the deal, Sergio Francisco may offer the Nigerian international a fresh opportunity to impress during pre-season, according to ED.
With few recognised strikers available for next season, Sadiq could benefit from the managerial change and finally fulfil the promise he showed upon arriving at Anoeta.
Having scored in his most recent outing against Rayo Vallecano on April 19, Sadiq has now made 19 LaLiga appearances this season — 12 for Valencia and seven for Sociedad — and looks determined to reignite his career.
His final audition may be just around the corner.
