Sadiq Umar has expressed his delight after completing a permanent return to Valencia, describing his move back to Mestalla as the fulfilment of a long-held desire, Bold Sports reports.
The Super Eagles striker sealed a deal from Real Sociedad that will keep him at Valencia until June 2028, following an impressive loan spell in the second half of last season in which he scored six goals in 19 appearances and quickly became a fan favourite.
“I’m very excited and happy. I’ve been waiting since last summer and finally, I’m here. I’m the happiest guy in the world,” Sadiq told Valencia’s official media. “I wanted to come back here, I did everything I could. The club also made every effort possible, and I’m very happy to be back.”
The 28-year-old spoke glowingly about Valencia’s identity and support, highlighting the passion of the club’s fanbase as a major factor behind his decision to return permanently.
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“Valencia CF is one of the biggest clubs in Spain and you can see it in the culture and the people: they never abandon the club,” he said.
Sadiq admitted that the ambition shown by both the supporters and the club during his loan spell convinced him that Mestalla was the right place to continue his career.
“One of the things that made me come back is ambition. Last season I saw how much the fans wanted results and that made me bring out the best in myself,” he explained. “Although I came for half a season, I knew this was the best place to be and to show what I can do.”
The Nigerian international also praised head coach Carlos Corberán, who arrived during a difficult period last season and successfully guided Valencia away from relegation danger to a 12th-place finish.
“He came in at a difficult time and found the solution for the team,” Sadiq said. “We got back to where we belong, and now that’s what he’s trying to do again, and he can do it. That’s why I’m here, to help the team and the club get back to where they deserve to be.”
“The manager is always striving for more, always hungry for more. That’s a positive thing. All we need now are the results,” he added.
Sadiq shared his excitement about Valencia’s new stadium, the Nou Mestalla, which is under construction and set to become a modern sports and entertainment hub with a capacity of over 70,000.
“The team is trying. With the new project, the Nou Mestalla… before all that, we need to get back to our best form,” he said. “Everything has to go well on the pitch and Valencia CF will be back where it belongs. It’s a dream for anyone to play in stadiums like this, especially for a big club like Valencia CF. We can’t wait.”
With his future now settled, Sadiq is expected to join training immediately and could be named in the squad for Valencia’s upcoming league clash against Elche, as he looks to play a key role in helping the club steer clear of relegation once again.
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