Sadiq Umar faces up to eight weeks out with hamstring injury
Nigerian striker Sadiq Umar is expected to be sidelined for up to eight weeks due to a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Valencia. The 29-year-old limped out of a training session after completing a full match against Deportivo La Coru帽a, where he scored Valencia's only goal in a 3-1 defeat. Valencia confirmed the injury to his right hamstring and stated he will undergo a medical, physiotherapy, and rehabilitation plan. This injury is a blow to Valencia and coach Carlos Corber谩n, as Umar has been a prominent player. Arnaut Danjuma and Hugo Duro are anticipated to take on more responsibility in his absence. The injury could also rule him out of Nigeria's 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying fixtures in September, though his absence may not significantly impact coach 脡ric Chelle's plans, as Umar has not been a regular for the Super Eagles under Chelle. Umar, who has not featured for Nigeria since November 2024, has stated he is considering retirement from international football. Nigeria is scheduled to play Madagascar and Guinea-Bissau in September for the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
