Hakan Çalhanoğlu

Calhanoglu (calf) has returned to full team training Monday for the first training of Turkiye on the american soil and will be an option for the World Cup opener against Australia on June 14, according to AA Spor.

Analysis: Calhanoglu had been gradually reintegrated into the group after a calf issue, and his return to full collective sessions is the clearest sign yet that the Inter Milan captain will be available to lead Turkiye from the start of the tournament. Coach Vincenzo Montella will be relieved to have his most important player fully fit heading into what promises to be a highly anticipated opening fixture.

Jun 6, 2026

Being managed carefully

Calhanoglu (calf) is being gradually reintegrated into Turkey's training setup, with coach Vincenzo Montella confirming the captain is slowly being brought back into the fold ahead of the World Cup opener on June 14, according to NTV Spor. "We have started to gradually bring Hakan back into the group."

Analysis: Calhanoglu returned as a substitute in Monday's friendly win over North Macedonia but the coaching staff are taking a measured approach to his reintegration, with the priority being to have the Inter Milan midfielder fully fit and available for the tournament rather than rushing him back prematurely. The captain's availability and fitness will continue to be monitored closely over the coming days ahead of Turkey's opening World Cup fixture against Australia on June 14.

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