Former Valencia CF striker Miguel Ángel Ferrer Mista has voiced surprise over the club’s decision to start Sadiq Umar ahead of top scorer Hugo Duro, despite Duro’s consistent goal contributions this season. The Nigerian forward, who joined Valencia from Real Sociedad during the winter transfer window, has found his rhythm at Mestalla, scoring twice in two Copa del Rey matches before the team’s elimination. In La Liga, he has netted three goals and provided three assists in 15 appearances, earning him a regular spot in the starting lineup. Meanwhile, Duro has been the team’s leading scorer with ten goals and one assist across 36 appearances in all competitions.
Sadiq’s rise in form has come at a time when Duro’s playing time has significantly decreased, sparking debate among fans and former players alike. Mista, speaking on ‘La Banda’ via ‘À Punt Esports’ and reported by Super Deporte, expressed confusion over the tactical shift, emphasizing Duro’s proven track record. “First, I don’t understand why Hugo Duro has stopped being the main striker,” Mista said. “He’s a guy who was doing well, scoring goals; he’s the team’s top scorer.” He acknowledged that the coach holds the final say in such matters but stressed that it is unusual for a consistent goal scorer to lose his starting position.
Mista did not dismiss Sadiq’s value to the team, recognizing the Nigerian’s unique qualities and contributions. “Sadiq, on the other hand, is a striker who offers something different, and luckily for Valencia CF, he scores goals,” he noted. He praised Sadiq’s impact since joining, admitting he has no issues with the player’s performance. However, Mista maintained that the striker position typically demands a clear first-choice player, and he disagrees with Duro’s demotion. “It must also be said that Sadiq is a good striker, that he’s contributing a lot; I have nothing against him, but it’s a position where you’re usually one or the other, and I disagree with Hugo being dropped from the starting lineup.”
The former Valencia forward also expressed admiration for Duro’s character, stating, “I’m not a big fan of Hugo Duro; I like what he’s shown in difficult situations and when he’s not afraid to call things as they are.” As Valencia battle to avoid relegation from La Liga, the team’s attacking dynamics will remain under scrutiny. Sadiq will aim to maintain his momentum and justify manager Carlos Corberán’s trust, while Duro’s role and future at the club remain uncertain. The situation highlights the delicate balance coaches must strike between form, consistency, and squad rotation in high-pressure campaigns.
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