Exclusive: Ex-Real Sociedad Midfielder Offers Perspective on Sadiq Umar's Struggles and Future at the Club

Former Real Sociedad forward Mutiu Adepoju has expressed support for Nigerian striker Sadiq Umar, who is struggling to secure regular playing time at the Spanish club.

Umar joined Real Sociedad in 2020 as a replacement for Alexander Isak, who had departed for Newcastle United.

The Nigerian international made an impressive start to his Sociedad career, netting three goals in his first five matches, including a debut strike against Atletico Madrid and a spectacular goal against Sevilla.

However, his momentum was abruptly halted by a severe injury that sidelined him for 11 months. Since his return, the 27-year-old has faced difficulties regaining top form, compounded by recurring injuries that have disrupted his progress and cost him a regular spot in the starting line-up.

This season, Umar has managed just seven appearances for Sociedad, starting only two games and coming off the bench in four.

Across all competitions, he has accumulated just 205 minutes of playing time out of a possible 1,260, including a brief three-minute cameo against Ajax in the Europa League last Thursday.

Tough Times are Part of Football

“I wouldn’t say I’m disappointed with the situation because tough times are part of football,” Adepoju told SportsBoom.com. “When he joined, he started strongly and made a significant impact, scoring some stunning goals. But an injury disrupted his momentum, and lately, things haven’t been going well for him due to a lack of game time.”

Umar recently voiced his frustration over the limited opportunities, stating the need for regular play to rediscover his best form.

The situation has been further complicated by comments from coach Imanol Alguacil, who publicly criticized Umar for representing Nigeria in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against Rwanda despite carrying an injury.

This tension has fueled speculation about a possible exit, with reports suggesting that the forward might seek a transfer to a club where he can secure consistent playing time.

Adepoju, who had a successful stint at Anoeta during his playing career, believes the situation requires careful consideration.

He Has Time To Turn Things Around

“As a professional, I understand how frustrating this can be, but he still has time to turn things around,” Adepoju said. “Both parties need to evaluate whether a loan move could be a better option. If he’s not getting enough minutes at Sociedad and there are opportunities elsewhere, exploring those options wouldn’t be a bad idea.”

He continued: “He could either join a new team to gain more playing time or stay and fight for his place. Ultimately, it’s crucial for both sides to sit down and find the best solution.”

Real Sociedad signed Umar from Almeria for €20 million after an exceptional season where he scored numerous goals and played a key role in Almeria’s promotion to La Liga.

Despite his current struggles, Adepoju remains confident in the striker’s abilities. “He’s still a very talented player, as we saw during his time at Almeria and in his first months at Sociedad,” Adepoju concluded.

Umar still has two years remaining on his contract with Real Sociedad, leaving the door open for both recovery and potential future moves.