‘I’m the Happiest Guy in the World’: Sadiq Umar on Valencia Return

Super Eagles striker Umar Sadiq has described his permanent return to Valencia CF as a dream come true, calling himself “the happiest guy in the world” following the completion of his transfer from Real Sociedad and signing a contract through June 2028.

Speaking after his unveiling, Sadiq said he had been waiting since last summer to make the switch back to Mestalla, where he previously impressed on loan with six goals in 19 appearances and quickly became a fan favourite. He praised Valencia’s passionate supporters and the club’s ambition as key reasons behind his decision to return — adding that both he and the club “did everything possible to make it happen.”

The 28 year old also spoke warmly about head coach Carlos Corberán, whose guidance during difficult moments last season helped the team stabilise in La Liga. Sadiq emphasised his desire to help Valencia “get back to where they deserve to be,” and expressed excitement about the club’s future — including the planned Nou Mestalla stadium project.

Editorial

In the tapestry of football transfers, few moments capture both sentiment and strategy with as much resonance as Umar Sadiq’s heartfelt return to Valencia CF. His declaration  that he is “the happiest guy in the world” is not merely the exhilaration of a completed signature on paper it is the culmination of a journey that blends aspiration with belonging.

Valencia is a club steeped in history and expectation, where the roar of Mestalla fans can be as motivating as any tactical briefing. For Sadiq, the stadium’s echo and the supporters’ fervour are not abstract concepts — they are visceral realities that shaped his decision to commit his prime years to the club. This is, after all, a striker who thrives as much on atmosphere as on opportunity who, in his earlier loan spell, provided not just goals but a connection with the terraces that few players achieve so quickly.

Yet this return is about more than nostalgia. It is a statement of intent from both player and club. Valencia’s willingness to invest in him permanently formalised in a contract to 2028 reflects confidence in his ability to be a fulcrum in their attacking ambitions. For Sadiq, the move is a chance to weave continuity into a career that has seen its share of starts and restarts across Europe. His relationship with head coach Carlos Corberán forged under pressure during Valencia’s fight against relegation adds another layer to a narrative defined by mutual trust and shared hunger.

In that respect, Sadiq’s joy is not merely personal. It is emblematic of football’s enduring allure the chance to return to a place where one is valued, to perform with purpose, and to chase collective goals with a sincerity that transcends mere contract terms. In the months ahead, his happiness will be measured not in soundbites but in the commitment he displays on the pitch and in the sense that, for once, a homecoming feels as much about destiny as it does about sport.

Did You Know?

1. Permanent Return After his successful loan spell last season 6 goals in 19 matches Valencia secured him on a permanent contract until 2028, making him a long-term part of their plans.
2. Impact at Valencia Sadiq’s loan goals helped Valencia stabilise their La Liga position and contributed to the club finishing clear of the relegation zone last season.
3. Nou Mestalla Vision The striker spoke about the club’s new stadium project, the Nou Mestalla, set to open in 2027, highlighting his excitement about playing in a future modern venue.
4. Coach Praise Sadiq credited Carlos Corberán with helping turn around the club’s form during tough periods, underlining the coach’s influence on his decision to return.
5. Valencia’s Record January Signings His permanent move places him among Valencia’s more significant winter acquisition investments, reflecting confidence in his talent and fit for the club’s ambitions.