Erik ten Hag revealed his devastation after learning of Sebastian Haller’s tumour diagnosis.
Haller’s current club Borussia Dortmund confirmed on Monday that the 28-year-old underwent medical examinations after he complained about feeling unwell following training.
A testicular tumour was discovered during Haller’s examinations, with further tests scheduled to take place in a specialist medical facility over the coming days.
Haller, who joined the Bundesliga club from earlier this summer, has been inundated with positive messages and acknowledged them on Twitter, writing: ‘Thank you all for your many messages of support and affection since yesterday’s announcement.
‘My family and I thank you. I will now focus on my recovery to come back stronger.’
Dortmund announced Haller’s diagnoses on Twitter and the club’s sporting director Sebastian Kehl said: ‘This news today came as a shock to Sebastien Haller and everyone else.
‘The entire BVB family hopes that Sebastien makes a full recovery as soon as possible and that we can give him a hug again soon.
‘We’ll do everything in our power to ensure that he receives the best possible treatment.’
Ten Hag and Haller know each other well from their time together at both Ajax and Utrecht and the former West Ham striker was even linked with a move to Manchester United this summer before he joined Dortmund.
Speaking after Tuesday’s win over Crystal Palace, Ten Hag was asked about Haller’s plight and said: ‘It’s horrible, I have a fantastic relationship with him.
‘This is my friend, this my striker for several years with Utrecht and Ajax and when you hear such news it’s devastating
‘My thoughts are with him and his family and I hope he will recover quickly.’
, .
, and .
