Valencia forward Umar Sadiq weighs retirement after earning twelve caps for the Super Eagles

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Super Eagles forward Umar Sadiq, who currently plays for Valencia, is reportedly weighing an early end to his international career, according to Afrik Foot.

The 29‑year‑old first rose to prominence at the 2016 Rio Olympics, netting four goals in six matches and helping Nigeria secure the bronze medal alongside John Obi Mikel.

After a turbulent spell in club football, Sadiq found stability in Spain’s second tier with Almería, scoring 43 goals in 84 appearances for the Cowboys.

Despite his Olympic success, it took six years for him to earn his first cap for the Super Eagles, and he has since played only a peripheral role.

With only 12 appearances for the Green and Whites, the Valencia striker has opened the possibility of retiring from international duty, a move that would abruptly close a frustrating chapter.

What Umar Sadiq said about his Super Eagles future

His remarks, made to Radio France International Hausa, come amid the looming disappointment of missing out on the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“I am thinking of retiring from the Nigerian national team, but I will make the final decision when the new season begins,” Sadiq said.

Since Eric Chelle took over as coach in January 2025, Sadiq has been called up only once and has declined to play when summoned.

The decision, coupled with the painful reality of seeing other strikers earn their first caps, has left the Kaduna‑born forward feeling “unwanted.”

“I was not called up. Maybe my profile is not the type they need, and there are other players doing well in the team because, as you know, Nigeria is blessed with abundant talent,” he said. “There is still time for me to make the final decision. That is why I said I will wait for the new season to start before I decide, so I can think about what will help me focus on my career and last in football like Cristiano Ronaldo,” the former Copa del Rey winner added.

Has Umar Sadiq been phased out of the Super Eagles?

Over the past 18 months, Nigeria’s attack has evolved. Chelle has moved the team away from a heavy reliance on Victor Osimhen to a more balanced front line.

While Osimhen remains a key figure, players such as Paul Onuachu, Terem Moffi, and Akor Adams have enjoyed strong runs, and Rafiu Durosinmi and Tolu Arokodare are also pushing for selection. Established names like Kelechi Iheanacho and Taiwo Awoniyi remain on the periphery, awaiting a chance to re‑enter the squad.

In this context, Sadiq’s profile has become harder to justify. Chelle favors forwards who can press from the front, while the former Real Sociedad striker’s strengths lie in his technical ability on the ball.

He is not as physically imposing as Onuachu, lacks the power of Osimhen, and cannot operate wide like Adams. These differences have limited him to just 309 minutes of international football since his 2022 debut.

While retirement may seem a significant decision at this stage, the prospect of extending his club career remains a priority for Sadiq. The choice has not yet been made, but his chances of another call‑up appear slim in the near future.