Sebastien Haller has received a positive update on his tumor treatment, but he says it will be “a few months” before he can consider a return to the field.
His diagnosis came after a July transfer to the Bundesliga heavyweights from Ajax, where he finished as the Eredivisie’s top scorer in 2021-22.
Hopes of a flying start in Germany were dashed when a testicular tumor was discovered, forcing the 28-year-old to withdraw from the field to undergo chemotherapy. Anthony Modeste has since been signed as a backup by Dortmund.
Haller, a former West Ham player, has stated that he is in good spirits and does not believe his body has been adversely affected by his treatment.
“Every day, I walk and check my body,” Haller told ESPN. “After two weeks, I haven’t lost much. I’m even back to where I was a few months ago. That’s a good sign, and I hope it continues. I’m in great shape.”
The Ivory Coast international refused to commit to a timetable for his return to competitive football, saying: “Let’s just say that right now isn’t the best time to take that step because it will take me several months.
“What matters is that I don’t lose too much muscle mass. I need to stay in shape, so I’ll do some ballwork again a month before I return to the field. The most important thing right now is that my body feels good.
“My first goal is to get back on the field and score my first goal for [Dortmund]. That will be a lovely and emotional scene.”
Dortmund have had a strong start to the new season in Haller’s absence, with three wins from four Bundesliga games, as they look to challenge holders Bayern Munich for the title.