Umar Sadiq included in Real Sociedad’s matchday squad amidst Super Eagles AFCON rule-out controversy
In a surprising turn of events, Umar Sadiq has been named in Real Sociedad’s 22-man squad for the upcoming Copa del Rey round of 16 clash against Osasuna.
The inclusion of the Nigerian striker has sparked discussions and raised eyebrows, particularly considering his recent departure from the Super Eagles’ AFCON 2023 camp due to injury.
Sadiq was replaced by Trabzonspor’s Paul Onuachu in the Super Eagles squad, with reports on social media questioning the swift return of Sadiq to training with his club teammates.
The Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) addressed the situation through a statement, expressing dissatisfaction with the conspiracy theories, incorrect assumptions, and insinuations circulating in the media regarding Sadiq’s medical case.
The NFF emphasized that the Super Eagles’ medical team followed proper procedures and protocols, consulting with a knee surgeon in Spain before deciding to withdraw Sadiq from the national team.
Despite the controversy, Sadiq’s return to the Real Sociedad squad for the Copa del Rey fixture will add new layers to the ongoing narrative surrounding his fitness and participation in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
