Former Super Eagles midfielder Garba Lawal in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa expressed belief that his compatriot Umar Sadiq should leave Real Sociedad in the January transfer window to secure more playing time.
Lawal, who hails from Kaduna just like Sadiq, wants the Nigerian forward — who spent time on loan at Valencia last season — to reach an agreement with Sociedad and find a permanent home.
Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar could be on the move again after enduring limited minutes at Real Sociedad, with the January window approaching. So far this season, he has made just two La Liga appearances, averaging 14 minutes per game.
“Sadiq needs to leave because it’s clear he’s no longer seen as an important player at the club,” Lawal stated in an exclusive interview with Footy-Africa. “I thought after doing well with Valencia last season, he would have become the main man for Sociedad, but that’s not the case.”
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“For me, Sadiq is a very good player who can score goals — he’s shown that already. All he needs is the opportunity and confidence to perform,” he added. “Look at what he did in Serbia and at Almeria; that shows a good run of form guarantees goals wherever he plays. I hope to speak to him soon, but right now, at this stage of his career, he needs to be playing regularly. He’s a good player and deserves more respect and game time.”
“If a move away from the club in January is possible, I think he should go,” Lawal concluded.
The 28-year-old’s future at the Basque club remains uncertain, despite his contract running until 2028.
Reports from Spain suggest Sociedad are open to letting him go due to his limited playing time and high salary he currently earns.
Sevilla FC, Valencia, Getafe, and Elche are all reportedly interested in signing the Nigerian forward, whose current market value stands at around €5 million.
