Fresh start pays off: ex-BVB striker Haller shines in Japan | OneFootball

Sébastien Haller (32) has been trying to give his career fresh momentum in Japan since this summer. And he has already made a successful start in the Far East.

A new chapter on the other side of the world: After many years in top-level European football, Haller moved to Asia this summer. Since the beginning of July, he has been leading the line in the J.League for top-flight club Sanfrecce Hiroshima.

The experienced striker has made an immediate impact in Japan. His record after just six matches is more than impressive, with three goals and one assist. The 32-year-old is already enjoying the full trust of his new club, having featured in every game and started four times.

His standout moment so far was likely his performance in the 3–0 win over Nagoya Grampus. The Ivorian played a decisive role in the match with a goal and an assist. Even in the bitter 3–2 defeat to Fagiano Okayama last Sunday (September 6), Haller showed his eye for goal by scoring to make it 2–1 at the time.

It was his team’s first defeat of the season, dropping Sanfrecce Hiroshima to fifth place. Still, the former Dortmund forward, who is under contract until 2027, can be very pleased with his personal start.

Unfortunate spell in Spain

Haller joined Borussia Dortmund from Ajax Amsterdam in 2022 for a transfer fee of €31 million. However, his time with the Black and Yellows was overshadowed by a severe personal setback: shortly after his transfer, he was diagnosed with a testicular tumor. After an exhausting course of chemotherapy and a long forced absence, he made an admirable comeback. Although he fought his way back into the starting XI at times and scored important goals, he ultimately failed to maintain that high level consistently.

Photo: IMAGO

This was followed by an unfortunate loan spell in Spain with Leganés, which ended after just half a year. Haller then joined FC Utrecht, where he had already played from 2015 to 2017. However, with 12 goal contributions in 51 appearances across all competitions, the former BVB professional failed to impress.

Now the 32-year-old is looking for footballing happiness in the J.League. And Haller has already made a promising start.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.