Injury Update: Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq nears Valencia return

Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq has offered an encouraging update on his recovery from injury, revealing that he could return to team training with Valencia soon, provided he comes through his latest medical assessment without complications.

The Nigerian forward has been sidelined since sustaining the injury in September, shortly before Valencia’s meeting with FC Barcelona, bringing his promising start to the campaign to a temporary halt.

Sadiq had opened his goalscoring account for the season against Deportivo La Coruña before the setback forced him out of action. He has subsequently missed five league fixtures against Barcelona, Sevilla, Alavés, Real Sociedad and Racing Santander.

However, the 29-year-old is hopeful of rejoining his teammates after saying he is nearing the final stages of his recovery.

Speaking to the media during the club’s meet-and-greet event, Sadiq disclosed that he was scheduled to undergo further tests on Thursday to determine whether he could resume training.

“Yes, I think I’m almost back. Just a few more steps before I rejoin the team,” Sadiq was quoted as saying by AS.

“Tomorrow (Thursday) I have to have some tests done and, if everything goes as planned, I think it will be very soon.”

The update will boost Valencia, who will be eager to have the Nigerian striker available again as they look to improve their fortunes this season. His return would also allow the forward to work under new manager Javier Aguirre for the first time since the coach’s arrival.

Sadiq backs Aguirre as Valencia target improvement

Sadiq also spoke positively about the atmosphere within the Valencia dressing room, expressing his support for Aguirre and the manager’s efforts to create a positive environment around the squad.

The striker said the players were approaching their work one step at a time while staying committed to helping the club achieve its objectives.

“We’re doing well. We’re trying to bring a lot of positivity, as you saw in the last match,” he added.

“We’re taking it one step at a time, and we all support the new coach. Yes, I’ve spoken to him.

“He told me to get well soon and that he’s waiting for me, because he knows what I can contribute to the team.”

Aguirre’s message appears to have reassured Sadiq about the role he could play once he returns to full fitness. The coach’s eagerness to welcome him back also suggests that the forward remains part of Valencia’s plans as they seek greater consistency.

Having missed the opening fixtures of Aguirre’s tenure, Sadiq will be keen to make up for lost time and demonstrate his value when he is cleared to return.

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The Nigerian’s immediate priority, however, will be completing his recovery without rushing back before he is ready. Thursday’s tests should provide a clearer indication of his progress and the possibility of a return to training.

The Goal is to take Valencia where it deserves to be — Sadiq

Despite his absence, Sadiq insists the club’s collective ambition remains clear: to help Valencia reach the level their history and stature demand.

The striker stressed that the objective goes beyond individual contributions, emphasising that every squad member shares responsibility for improving the club’s position.

“The goal is to take Valencia to where it deserves to be. That’s not just my goal, but the goal of all the players,” he concluded.

Sadiq will now hope his recovery proceeds as planned, allowing him to return to the pitch and begin working under Aguirre. After making a positive start to the campaign before his injury, the Super Eagles forward has an opportunity to regain momentum and establish himself in the new manager’s plans.

For Valencia, his return would provide another attacking option as the club pursues its ambitions. For Sadiq, the next step is clear: pass his medical checks, return to training and turn his optimism into a timely comeback.