Just days before the start of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco (scheduled for December 21), the reigning African champions are in a state of uncertainty. Their star striker, Sébastien Haller , was forced off with an injury while playing for his club, FC Utrecht, casting serious doubt on his participation in the continental tournament.

A major blow to the Netherlands

The incident occurred on Sunday, December 14, during the 16th matchday of the Eredivisie. Against NAC Breda, the Ivory Coast international was abruptly stopped in the 68th minute , suffering from a sharp pain in his hamstring.

Although the Dutch club has not yet released an official medical statement, the initial internal comments are far from optimistic.

His coach's pessimistic verdict

Utrecht coach Ron Jans was very reserved, even fatalistic, about his player's presence in Morocco:

"The news isn't good. It's a hamstring injury. Generally, this type of injury requires about six weeks of rest. At this rate, the tournament will already be over for him. It's a real shame." — Ron Jans

The Elephants are waiting

Although included in the list of 26 players called up by Emerse Faé , Haller's place is now more than threatened. For the time being:

1. The FIF (Ivorian Football Federation) has not yet officially reacted.
2. Further tests are expected to confirm the exact duration of the unavailability.

If the withdrawal is confirmed, it would be a major blow for Ivory Coast, who would lose their attacking leader less than a week before their entry into the competition.