By Milcah Tanimu

Sadiq Umar’s withdrawal from the Super Eagles’ squad for the 2023 African Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast due to injury has sparked controversy, especially after a video of him training individually in Spain surfaced on social media. The NFF communications department released a statement clarifying the situation, emphasizing the professionalism of their medical team.

The statement expressed disappointment at the spread of conspiracy theories and incorrect assumptions regarding Umar’s injury. According to the NFF, Umar was in good condition when he arrived in camp, passed the standard pre-competition medical assessment, and started training with the team.

However, during a friendly match against Guinea on January 8, Umar sustained an injury to the back of his left knee, leading to a penalty against their opponents. Although the medical team advised substitution as a precautionary measure, Umar insisted he was fine and played the entire 90 minutes. The following day, he woke up with swelling in the knee, and the medical team applied ice.

Contrary to some reports, the NFF stressed that their medical team, trained in sport and exercise medicine, followed due processes and consulted with a knee surgeon in Spain before deciding to withdraw Umar in the interest of his career and the nation. The NFF reiterated that Umar was informed throughout the process and started his rehabilitation with the Super Eagles’ physiotherapist before returning to his club in Spain.