Duje Caleta-Car

Caleta-Car (back) returned to full training on Saturday, confirming his recovery from the back issue that had kept him out of Croatia's pre-tournament friendlies, according to The Croatian.

Analysis: Caleta-Car had been managing the back problem throughout the preparation period but his return to collective sessions is a timely boost for coach Zlatko Dalic heading into the tournament. The Lyon center-back, who contributed one goal, 24 tackles, 28 interceptions and 129 clearances across 27 La Liga appearances for Real Sociedad on loan, is expected to be now fully available for Croatia's World Cup campaign.

Jun 9, 2026

Back issue improving

Caleta-Car (back) has been managing a back injury that has kept him out of Croatia's pre-tournament friendlies, but expressed optimism about his recovery ahead of the World Cup, according to The Croatian. "It's better, especially today. It's improving day by day. The plan is to fully recover from it once we arrive in the United States."

Analysis: Caleta-Car ended his loan spell with Real Sociedad, contributing one goal, 24 tackles, 28 interceptions and 129 clearances across 27 La Liga appearances, and will now focus entirely on being fully fit for Croatia's World Cup campaign. The coaching staff will monitor his condition closely over the coming days before making any decisions on his availability for the tournament opener.

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Duje Caleta-Car

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