Sébastien Haller struggles at FC Utrecht as coach labels him third-choice striker

Sébastien Haller is currently the third-choice striker at FC Utrecht, coach Ron Jans has confirmed, as the Ivorian continues to struggle for form following a period on the sidelines.

Haller, who joined the club last summer, had been out for several weeks with a rib contusion but returned as a late substitute in Sunday’s match against PEC Zwolle.

“We need to give him time and rest,” Jans said during his post-match press conference, as reported by Voetbal International.

The Dutch coach explained that Haller’s limited playing time is part of a careful approach to rebuilding his fitness and confidence.

“He just rejoined the team and was ready to start the match, possibly for around fifteen minutes. In terms of fitness and playing time, he’s currently only the third choice.

He needs to maintain his form and be competitive against the others. That comes through training and coming off the bench,” Jans added.

Haller faces competition for the starting spot from David Min and Artem Stepanov, with Stepanov currently occupying a regular place in the lineup.

The striker’s limited minutes have prompted questions about his future at the club, including remarks from FC Utrecht owner Frans van Seumeren during the ESPN program “Goedemorgen Eredivisie.”

Despite the setbacks, Jans praised Haller’s efforts to regain fitness. “Sébastien has worked incredibly hard to get back in shape.

His season hasn’t been a success yet, but we hope that if he comes on in the last five minutes, he can still play a significant role. I think that kind of experience could help him get through this difficult period,” he said.

Haller’s situation underscores the challenges faced by players returning from injury while competing for a spot in a competitive squad.

With managed playing time and continued training, the Ivorian striker aims to reclaim form and earn more minutes for FC Utrecht this season.