Duje Caleta-Car, the robust Croatian central defender, is experiencing a real resurrection in the colors of OL after a tumultuous time at OM. Recruited by Marseille in 2018 for 20 million euros, Caleta-Car had never really convinced the fervent Marseille supporters, who found him too “nonchalant”.
However, upon arriving in Lyon, he established himself as a key piece of the defense, putting together solid performances and even returning to the Croatian selection. “I’m not surprised to see him so strong in Lyon today. In confidence, Duje is a potential top defender,” declared Bouna Sarr, former teammate of the Croatian at OM, in the columns of So Foot.
A calm, appreciated and efficient player
If his experience at Southampton was also difficult, the support of the Lyon staff and teammates like Nemanja Matic helped Caleta-Car find serenity and consistency. “He’s a boy who needs to feel loved,” confides Jamal Alioui, member of the Lyon staff, who underlines the importance of trust for his protégé.
Discreet off the field, but close to his teammates and his family, the defender has become a model of consistency and a valued locker room man. His good performances allowed him to reconnect with the Croatian national team, symbolizing his development in Lyon.
