Sebastien Haller remains committed to Cote d’Ivoire and is available for selection despite continuing his club career in Japan with Sanfrecce Hiroshima.
The 32-year-old striker has not closed the door on the national team and says he is still ready to answer the call of the Elephants. His international career remains an important part of his footballing ambitions, and his desire to represent Cote d’Ivoire has not changed since his move to the J.League.
Haller was one of the defining figures of the Africa Cup of Nations 2023, playing a decisive role in the country’s triumph on home soil. His goals at crucial moments helped Cote d’Ivoire complete a memorable tournament and secure the title in front of their own supporters.
That achievement has ensured a special place for Haller in the recent history of the national team. However, his ambitions with the Elephants extend beyond his contribution to that successful campaign. The former Borussia Dortmund centre-forward wants to use his experience at the highest level to benefit the wider group whenever he is selected.
His move to Sanfrecce Hiroshima also offers Haller the chance to rebuild his rhythm and regain the strongest possible competitive momentum. The player views his time in Japan as an opportunity to rediscover an optimal level of performance, while continuing to remain available for international duty.
With Cote d’Ivoire’s next fixtures approaching, Haller has again made his position clear. He intends to contribute whenever the coach decides to call on him and remains ready to add his experience to the national-team set-up.
That willingness is significant for the Elephants, who can still count on the presence of a forward with experience of major international competition and high-level club football. Haller’s role would not be limited to his contribution in front of goal: his maturity and understanding of elite football also provide valuable leadership within the dressing room.
For now, his club future lies in Japan, where he is committed to Sanfrecce Hiroshima. His international future, however, remains open. Haller continues to regard himself as fully selectable for Cote d’Ivoire and is prepared to place his experience at the service of the collective whenever the national team requires him.
