Definitively back at FC Utrecht during the summer 2025 transfer window after a loan in the second half of the previous season, Sébastien Haller is experiencing a more difficult comeback than expected in the Netherlands. Despite signing a one-year contract with the club where he first made his mark ten years ago, the Ivorian striker struggles to regain his former effectiveness. In sixteen league matches this season, he has not scored any goals and has only started four times, confirming a goal drought that also extends to the Cup, where he remained goalless after two appearances.
This situation contrasts with his experience and achievements, including winning the African Nations Championship with Ivory Coast in 2024. However, in winter 2023, surgery and a long recovery period disrupted his continuity. Since then, Haller has dealt with recurring fitness issues, including lack of match rhythm and injuries, which have affected his ability to consistently perform at the high level he showed previously at Ajax Amsterdam and Borussia Dortmund.
His current coach, Ron Jans, has stated that he is fit enough to start against Olympique Lyonnais this Thursday in the Europa League, reflecting technical confidence despite his offensive struggles at Utrecht. This season, Haller has played just 130 minutes in total for the club, with an average rating below his usual standards, marking a delicate transitional phase in his professional career.
In the Ivorian national team, coach Emerse Faé continues to rely on Haller’s experience. He recently participated in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, starting against Gabon and coming on as a substitute against Burundi. This demonstrated trust highlights his important role despite recent competition from young talents such as Vakoun Bayo. Nevertheless, questions remain about his ability to become a dominant goal scorer again and secure a decisive qualification during the upcoming international break in October.