During the 2008 Africa Cup of Nations, it was reported that many clubs had scouts present to watch Chikhaoui (Manchester United, Bayern Munchen, Juventus ...). Unfortunately, after impressing at the African Cup of Nations he was forced to take time out to get a recurring knee problem treated. On 26 April 2009, he completed his recovery by returning to play for the Zurich first team. Weeks later he cemented his comeback with a goal and contributed, as a late substitute, to helping his team win and stay top in the title race.