After being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2022, Ivory Coast international Sebastien Haller returned to action with Borussia Dortmund to a heartwarming response from the footballing world. Speaking to Soccer Laduma, the PUMA athlete said he is looking forward to picking up from where he left off last season.
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The 29-year-old joined Dortmund last year from Ajax Amsterdam as Erling Haaland's replacement, but his world was turned upside down shortly after his arrival in Germany when he was diagnosed with cancer. Messages of support poured in from around the world for the French-born Ivory Coast international, who reached stunning form in the 2021/22 season in the Netherlands as he contributed to an incredible 43 goals in as many matches to help inspire the Dutch giants to success in the Eredivisie.
Having returned to the field after being given the medical green light in January this year, Haller eventually rediscovered his lethal scoring form as he struck nine times in 19 Bundesliga games, with eight of those goals coming in his final 10 league outings. With Soccer Laduma recently speaking to the PUMA athlete exclusively, here's what he had to say about the worldwide support he received, his excellent record in Europe's biggest club competition, Jude Bellingham's big-money move to Real Madrid, and more!
What was it like seeing the entire footballing world get behind you as you underwent treatment last year?
Truly heart-warming, I didn't expect to get that amount of support. I felt incredibly lucky and blessed, and I want to thank again everyone for this.
You ended the league season in great form, scoring eight goals in your last 10 games. Are you confident that you can continue being so important for Dortmund?
Of course, I'm confident, but it will be another exciting challenge for me, only hard work and dedication will make this possible.
How have you enjoyed your experience of playing international football for Ivory Coast over the past three years?
It's a great honour to play for Ivory Coast, I realise how football is so powerful and can change a lot of things. Every time I play for the Elephants, I enjoy it more and more; I love representing my country and the people of the Ivory Coast.
When you look back on your short spell at West Ham United, how do you feel about your experience of playing in the Premier League?
I feel good about it, even if it didn't work out like I wanted it to. I know the reasons, but the most important thing is to learn from our experiences.
You've got a great record in the UEFA Champions League – 11 goals in 10 games. What is it about the competition that brings out the best in you?
I had a good run and it will stay forever in my memory, but this is the best competition for a reason. We need to improve ourselves every day to make sure we perform every game. It gives me goosebumps just listening to the anthem.
Your former teammate Jude Bellingham has completed a record move to Real Madrid. What does he have that will make him one of the world's best midfielders?
He has the abilities, the brain, and a great team around him. It's down to him now, but he definitely has the potential to succeed and become an even greater player. This is what I really wish for him.
Who were your footballing idols growing up, and why did you look up to them?
When I was young, I had Thierry Henry and [Didier] Drogba as my role models, but I was a fan of lots of strikers as well. Not only because of their abilities but also their aura and what they represent for a lot of people.
What boots do you play in, and why do they work for you?
PUMA ULTRA. Super Light and very comfortable. Simple as that!
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