Massadio Haïdara Eyes Comeback After Injury-Hit Seasons
Massadio Haïdara is quietly rebuilding his career at Newcastle United, having finally returned to full fitness after two difficult, injury-plagued years. The Franco-Malian left-back, once tipped for a bright future, is now determined to make the most of his opportunity on the pitch.
Having featured in Newcastle’s opening fixtures this season, Haïdara is beginning to show glimpses of the talent that once brought him to the attention of the French national team setup. While a call-up to Euro 2016 may seem a distant prospect, the 22-year-old insists he’s focused on staying grounded.
“I don’t think about it too much,” Haïdara said when asked about a potential place in Didier Deschamps’ squad. “Right now, I just know that I have to play for Newcastle and show good things. If I do that, why not? In football, things change quickly.”
The left-back joined Newcastle from AS Nancy in 2013 but saw his progress hampered by repeated injuries, including a serious knee problem that kept him out of action for extended periods. His resilience, however, is now paying off as he re-establishes himself under the new coaching staff.
Haidara’s performances in the early part of the season have been marked by consistency, defensive maturity, and improved fitness—a promising sign not only for Newcastle fans, but potentially for France, where left-back remains a competitive position.
Though his international ambitions are currently on hold, Haïdara’s message is clear: he is ready, should the opportunity come.
“If I get the call, I won’t say no,” he added with a smile. “But I’m taking it step by step.”
With Newcastle aiming for a strong Premier League campaign and Haïdara returning to form at just the right time, the coming months could mark a crucial turning point in a career that once looked in danger of being derailed.
