Luca Zidane returns to training as Algeria World Cup hopes receive boost

Luca Zidane has resumed individual training with Granada CF after missing the club’s last two matches due to injury, offering a timely boost to his recovery ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

The 28-year-old goalkeeper has been sidelined in recent weeks after suffering a fractured jaw and chin during a league match. He subsequently underwent surgery, which has kept him out of competitive action during the closing stages of the LaLiga 2 season.

Granada still have three matches remaining, but Zidane is not expected to feature in the upcoming fixture on Saturday as he continues his rehabilitation programme. He has not yet rejoined full team training, with the club opting for a cautious approach to his recovery.

His return is now projected for the following match, where he is expected to gradually rebuild match fitness ahead of international duty.

The timing is significant, with the Algeria national team preparing for its pre-tournament training camp scheduled for May 25.

Zidane’s progress is being closely monitored by national team staff, given his importance to Algeria’s plans heading into a major international summer.

Algeria head coach Vladimir Petković first called up the goalkeeper last October, and he quickly established himself as a key figure within the squad.

By December, Zidane had already secured the number one goalkeeping position during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, further strengthening his standing within the national setup.

Barring any setbacks, he is widely expected to retain that role at the 2026 World Cup, where Algeria are hoping to make a strong impression on the global stage.

His gradual return to fitness is therefore viewed as encouraging news for both club and country, with Granada keen to reintegrate him safely while Algeria monitor his readiness for the demands of international competition.

For now, the focus remains on a steady recovery programme designed to ensure he returns fully fit ahead of a crucial summer in his international career.