Sadiq Opts for Pay Cut to Force Valencia Return in Time for World Cup Push Super Eagles striker Sadiq Umar has reportedly accepted a 30 per cent pay reduction to facilitate a return to Valencia this summer, aiming to reignite his career ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers. According to Mundo Deportivo, the Nigerian international agreed to waive part of his salary to persuade Real Sociedad to approve a loan deal with Los Che. The 28 year old, who enjoyed a short loan spell at Valencia during the latter half of last season, is keen to rejoin the Mestalla outfit. He was notably absent from Real Sociedad’s squad during last Saturday’s La Liga opener against Valencia, a move that has only intensified speculation over an imminent switch. Desperate for regular game time, Sadiq is determined to finalise the transfer before Valencia’s match against Osasuna at El Sadar Stadium. He harbours fond memories of that venue, where he scored an ingenious back-heeled goal in March—later voted La Liga’s Goal of the Month. That 87th-minute effort earned Valencia a vital 3-3 draw and helped them stave off relegation concerns. With less than two weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, Sadiq remains hopeful that a return to Valencia could revive his prospects of earning a recall to the Super Eagles squad for the September qualifiers against South Africa and Rwanda. Editorial We see in Sadiq’s bold decision the resolute commitment of a player determined to reclaim his momentum. By voluntarily sacrificing a significant portion of his earnings, he demonstrates a willingness to prioritise competitive minutes and personal growth over financial comfort. It is a statement that speaks volumes in today’s football landscape, where contracts are often sacrosanct.