Sadiq’s Kaduna summer ahead of Valencia pre-season | OneFootball

Sadiq is spending a grounded summer in Kaduna, Nigeria, enjoying family time and kickabouts on local dirt pitches. For the first time in a while, he knows his plans for next season.

The player said in a post that Ranchers Bees Kaduna stands for hope, opportunity and pride, and that he will keep nurturing young talent and uniting communities on and off the pitch. He is a benefactor of Ranchers Bees Kaduna. He also described meeting the Bees family as a reminder of the passion, unity and commitment around the club.

Carlos Corberán got his wish in January when Valencia agreed a deal with Real Sociedad for Sadiq. He had impressed on loan at Mestalla, but a permanent move last summer did not happen.

Since arriving he has featured in all 20 Valencia matches, scoring four and providing three assists. The knee issues that hindered his time at Real Sociedad now seem behind him.

This will be his first pre-season with Valencia as he looks to convince Corberán he can lead the line. He is vying with Hugo Duro, with the coach selecting Duro to start the last four league games. Sadiq has not started since 2 May against Atlético de Madrid.

His idiosyncratic movement, celebrations and interviews have made him a favourite at Mestalla, and his arrival was warmly received. Back home he has been sharing Valencia shirts during informal games in Kaduna with friends and neighbours.

Source: AS