Real Sociedad boss Imanol Alguacil has responded to Umar Sadiq’s recent criticism over his lack of consistent playing time.
The Nigeria international, who has struggled to make an impact in La Liga this season, hinted at frustration with his manager’s decisions and attributing his challenges to a lack of continuity.
Alguacil, however, offered his perspective on the situation, revealing concerns about Sadiq’s fitness during the international break.
According to the Spanish manager, Sadiq returned to the club nursing a hamstring injury aggravated during Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Hamstring injury complicates Sadiq’s return
The 27-year-old was named in Nigeria’s squad for the qualifiers against Benin Republic and Rwanda but played only five minutes in the latter after reportedly hurting his hamstring two days earlier.
Alguacil criticized the decision to field the player despite his discomfort, noting its impact on his readiness for club duties.
“When he gets here, I tell him that he’s called up and that he’s going to play in the Copa match, and he tells me that he’s not available and doesn’t train for two days,” Alguacil said.
“On Saturday, he trains and says he’s available for the derby. So, I take him, but for me, he’s not completely available.”.
Sadiq has managed just one assist in eight appearances across all competitions this season.
With competition for starting roles from players like Mikel Oyarzabal and Sheraldo Becker, the forward is still pushing for more consistent opportunities to showcase his talent.
