Bosnian striker Haris Tabaković, 31, suffered a severe metatarsal fracture during a match against Hoffenheim, where his team won 4-0. This injury has significantly threatened his participation in the upcoming World Cup.

Striving for World Cup Participation

In spite of his severe injury, Tabaković remains hopeful of playing for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. Following consultations with several doctors, he has opted for conservative treatment, which involves wearing a special orthopedic boot for the next two weeks. His goal is to travel with the national team and join the squad later in the tournament, according to Florian Plettenberg, a German Sky Sports insider.

Tabaković had an excellent season in the Bundesliga, scoring 13 goals and making two assists. His strong performances have opened up options for his future with multiple clubs showing interest, Plettenberg added.

Bosnian Hero

Tabaković has 10 appearances and four goals for the Bosnia and Herzegovina national team. Three of those goals were crucial in the World Cup qualifiers against Romania, Austria, and in the playoff final against Italy.

Tabaković's significance to the team is evident in the fact that he was the first confirmed player for the World Cup by the Bosnia and Herzegovina selectors. Coach Sergej Barbarez frequently introduced him as a substitute for Edin Džeko or Ermedin Demirović. Barbarez expressed his admiration, saying, "I am a big fan of Haris, I like the way he plays and experiences football."

Tabaković was born in Switzerland, where he started his football career and played for the youth national team. He has played for Young Boys, Grasshoppers, Debrecen, Diosgyőr, Austria Lustenau, Vienna Austria, Hertha, Hoffenheim, and Borussia Mönchengladbach. Transfermarkt estimates his value at three million euros.