After undergoing treatment for cancer, Ivorian striker Sebastian Haller is now back to training with Borussia Dortmund
Ivorian striker Sebastian Haller has made a near-miraculous recovery from a testicular cancer diagnosis in July and has returned to training with his club, Borussia Dortmund.
The German club shared pictures of Haller at their training centre, getting involved in a personal workout.
Haller could finally make his competitive debut for Dortmund
Haller signed for Dortmund in a €31 million deal from Ajax after two impressive years with the Dutch club, but has been unable to play in a competitive fixture for his new club since signing due to his diagnosis in the team’s preseason camp.
He has gone through two surgeries and chemotherapy in his battle to be healthy again, and the procedures look to finally be paying off, with Haller set for a possible return to the football pitch soon.
Dortmund released a video message from Haller via their Twitter handle in which the striker made a short but emotional shout-out to fans who have kept him going through a period that was “not that easy’ for him. He also said he was looking forward to getting back on the pitch and winning games with Dortmund.
A happy new year for Haller
On his personal Twitter handle, Haller also penned a heartfelt new year’s message to his fans, whom he said he could not wait to see again.
“Happy New Year everyone! And it starts very well for me because it is synonymous with returning to the field! 2022 was not the easiest year, but it prepared me to take up all the new challenges that 2023 will offer me. Looking forward to seeing you all again”
Haller could be in contention for a place in the team before the season runs out, and Dortmund could really use his services as they continue to struggle in the Bundesliga.
They are currently in fifth place after 15 matches and have scored only 25 goals this season, while missing 28 big chances. Their need for a potent finisher upfront cannot be understated, and they will be counting the days until Haller can rejoin his teammates on the pitch.