Nigeria international Umar Sadiq has been lauded by his Valencia teammate Hugo Duro, who praised the striker’s exceptional form and influence on the team in recent matches.

Speaking to SER radio, Duro provided insight into the current dynamics within the squad and acknowledged the remarkable contribution of the Nigerian forward. 

Reflecting on his own reduced playing time, the Valencia attacker was quoted as saying by Mundo Deportivo: “I’m playing less, and rightly so. Sadiq is spectacular with and without the ball. The match he played was tremendous.” 

Duro also emphasized the importance of focus and patience in a squad where opportunities can be fleeting.

Highlighting Sadiq’s brilliance on the pitch, he remarked: “We all have to be focused; you never know when your moment will come. I don’t know when Sadiq will stop looking like Pelé.”

The comparison to the Brazilian legend emphasized the level of admiration and belief in Sadiq’s potential from his teammates.

Further expressing his support, Duro stressed that he sees Sadiq’s rise not as a challenge but as an opportunity for the team to thrive collectively.

“I’ll be there fighting for him; it’s his time, and rightly so. I’m loving it, and I’m here to help, as I think everyone else is,” he added.

Umar Sadiq permanently rejoined Valencia  from Real Sociedad in January 2026 on a contract lasting until June 2028.

He had previously excelled during a 2024‑25 loan spell, scoring five goals in 16 La Liga games. 

Wale Adejumo