Sebastien Haller: I am not at Borussia Dortmund to be Erling Haaland’s successor
Sebastien Haller did not come to Borussia Dortmund to be Erling Haaland’s successor. But he is determined to repay the trust placed in him by the BVB bosses.
Borussia Dortmund completed the signing of Sebastien Haller earlier this month for a club record transfer fee of 31 million euros plus bonuses. The former Eintracht Frankfurt and Ajax striker has been signed to replace Erling Haaland following his move to Manchester City. But Haller does not want to be compared to the Norwegian international.
"During a media round on Sunday, Haller said: “I didn’t come here to be someone’s successor. I came to BVB because they need my quality. I will do my best to meet the expectations and give back the confidence that they have placed in me.”"
Following Robert Lewandowski’s move from Bayern Munich to FC Barcelona, Sebastien Haller is one of the favourites to win the Torjägerkanone (the Bundesliga’s top goalscorer award) this season. The 27 year old certainly has no complaints about Lewandowski’s exit. But he is only focusing on himself, and is determined to lead Borussia Dortmund to success.
"“I certainly won’t complain about Lewandowski being gone. (laughs) I don’t think any striker in the league would complain. But I can’t count on the weaknesses of others to win something. I have to earn it myself. The most important thing for me is to focus on myself and score as many goals as possible.”"
Haller scored 34 goals in just 42 appearances for Ajax last season, including 11 in the UEFA Champions League. And Borussia Dortmund will certainly be hoping for a similar return from their new number nine.
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Haller is looking forward to linking up with his new teammates in the coming weeks as Borussia Dortmund ramp up their preparations for the new season. The Ivory Coast international is a huge fan of Jude Bellingham, and believes that the midfielder has a very bright future ahead of him.
"“Jude Bellingham is a crazy player. With his age and the ability he has on the pitch, everyone knows that he will go far. He will have a great career if he keeps playing like this.”"
Next. The Bundesliga games that could shape Borussia Dortmund’s season. dark
Sebastien Haller could make his Borussia Dortmund debut on Monday as they take on La Liga side Valencia CF in a pre-season friendly in Austria.