Bern, Switzerland – Swiss club Young Boys has publicly addressed concerns surrounding the injury of Algerian international defender, Jaouen Hadjam, stating unequivocally that the Algerian national team bears no responsibility for the player’s condition. The statement aims to dispel any speculation of negligence during Hadjam’s time with the national squad, specifically regarding the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations preparations.
In an official announcement, Young Boys clarified that Hadjam’s injury initially presented as relatively minor. “The complexity of the injury made it difficult to fully assess the severity at the outset,” the club explained. It wasn’t until Hadjam underwent thorough medical examinations upon his return to Switzerland that the true extent of the damage became clear.
Hadjam is now facing a lengthy spell on the sidelines, following the diagnosis of a torn ligament in his left ankle, requiring surgical intervention. Initial estimates suggest a recovery period of approximately three months, but subsequent findings indicate the injury is more serious than initially anticipated.
Young Boys’ Sporting Director, Christoph Spycher, emphasized the positive communication with the Algerian national team’s technical staff. He noted that initial indicators were not alarming, and the initial test results were inconclusive. Spycher highlighted the smooth and constructive dialogue with Algeria’s coach, Vladimir Petkovic, stressing that the priority at the time was to ensure Hadjam’s swift return to the club for further evaluation.
“The definitive diagnosis was only reached after a series of in-depth examinations,” Spycher stated, explaining the delay in determining the full severity of the injury while Hadjam was with the Algerian national team.
Meanwhile, Swiss media outlets suggest that Young Boys may explore the possibility of signing a replacement player during the transfer window to compensate for Hadjam’s prolonged absence. However, no official decision has been made at this stage.
