From a contrasting first stint in the Premier League to national star: here are the crossed destinies of Sébastien Haller and Mohamed Salah. The two talents face off on Wednesday (5 p.m.) in the round of 16 of the African Cup during the match between Côte d’Ivoire and Egypt.
With 23 goals for the Egyptian and 22 for the Ivorian in all competitions, this season seems to be the year of all records for Mohamed Salah and Sébastien Haller. Serial goalscorers, stratospheric debuts with their clubs and a contrasting first stint in the Premier League: despite different positions on the pitch, it’s hard to overlook their similarities. Introducing two prolific players with many commonalities.
An unconvincing first stint in the Premier League
This season, they achieve a season of all records. But that hasn’t always been the case during their respective careers. During their first spell in the Premier League, Salah (at Chelsea) and Haller (at West Ham), both had a difficult time. After a promising first season at the two London clubs, they have not confirmed. The Blues and the Hammers have therefore decided to separate from them. Fortunately for Haller and Salah, these transfers allowed them to bounce back and become the stars of their selection.
