Umar Sadiq was absent from Valencia's starting lineup on Saturday as his side played out a goalless draw against Athletic Bilbao at the Mestalla Stadium in La Liga.

The Nigeria international is currently sidelined with a hamstring injury. Before picking up the knock, Sadiq had featured three times for Valencia this season, contributing one goal.

Athletic Bilbao dominate possession but fail to break through

Athletic Bilbao controlled 63 percent of the ball and probed Valencia's defensive block through Iñaki Williams and Robert Navarro. However, Valencia's backline — marshalled by César Tárrega and goalkeeper Stole Dimitrievski — held firm throughout.

Valencia posed a threat on the break, with Arnaut Danjuma and Javi Guerra combining to generate 13 shots across the 90 minutes. Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Unai Simón was equal to every challenge, making a string of important saves to keep a clean sheet.

Substitutes unable to break the deadlock

Both teams turned to their benches in the second half in search of a breakthrough. Harvey Elliott was among the substitutes introduced for Valencia, but neither side could find the decisive moment in the final third.

The draw leaves Valencia continuing their gradual rebuild under their current tactical setup, while Athletic Bilbao return to the Basque Country with a hard-earned point on the road.