Umar Sadiq Backs Lookman’s Atletico Move As Nigerian Presence In La Liga Grows
Valencia Striker Praises Lookman’s Move to Atlético Madrid
Valencia striker Umar Sadiq has expressed support for Ademola Lookman’s recent transfer to Atlético Madrid, calling it a significant development for Nigerian football in Spain.
Lookman finalized a €35 million transfer, with an additional €5 million in performance-related add-ons, earlier this month from Atalanta. He made an immediate impact during his debut appearance, scoring once and providing an assist, ahead of his La Liga kickoff at the Wanda Metropolitano.
Sadiq, who joined Valencia from Real Sociedad in January in search of more regular playing time, commended Lookman’s arrival. “His presence enhances the growing Nigerian representation in the Spanish league,” Sadiq said.
The 29-year-old forward, who has scored twice since his €3 million transfer to Valencia, remarked on the competitiveness of La Liga. “I’m glad to see him coming to La Liga because this is probably the best league in the world,” he stated. Sadiq continued, “The best league needs the best players, and Ademola Lookman is one of the best players right now.”
With Lookman’s transfer, four Nigerian players are now competing in Spain’s top division. Alongside Sadiq and Lookman, Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams from Sevilla round out the group of Nigerian athletes representing La Liga.
