Anderlecht’s Nathan De Cat Returns to Training Ahead of Belgian Cup Final
Anderlecht midfielder Nathan De Cat has resumed collective training, signaling a potential acceleration in his recovery from a syndesmotic ligament injury sustained in early April. The 17-year-old Belgian international participated in team drills on Saturday, marking his first return to group activities since being sidelined during Anderlecht’s playoff match against KV Mechelen.
The development was confirmed through social media posts by teammate Tristan Degreef, who shared an Instagram story depicting De Cat wearing a training bib during the session. Belgian outlet DHnet reported that while De Cat is not yet cleared for all exercises, he has departed the medical facility several days ahead of the initial four-to-six week recovery timeline projected by club medical staff.
De Cat’s injury occurred just before halftime in the second leg of Anderlecht’s playoff semifinal against Mechelen on April 10. Initial assessments indicated damage to the syndesmotic ligament in his ankle, a connective tissue structure critical for ankle stability that typically requires extended rehabilitation. The injury raised immediate concerns about his availability for the Belgian Cup final against Union Saint-Gilloise scheduled for May 14 at King Baudouin Stadium in Brussels.
Despite the setback, De Cat had established himself as a pivotal figure in Anderlecht’s midfield during the 2025-26 season. At just 17 years old, he appeared in 47 matches for the club’s first team across all competitions, becoming one of the youngest players to feature regularly in Anderlecht’s lineup this campaign. His technical proficiency and vision in central midfield had been particularly valuable as the team navigated a transitional phase following several departures in the summer transfer window.
The early return to training represents a significant development for Anderlecht head coach David Hubert, who has faced midfield limitations throughout the playoffs. De Cat’s potential availability would provide tactical flexibility as the club prepares for the cup final and concludes its league campaign. Union Saint-Gilloise, Anderlecht’s upcoming opponent, currently leads the Belgian Pro League standings and enters the final as defending cup champions.
Medical staff continue to monitor De Cat’s progress closely. While his participation in collective training suggests improved mobility and reduced pain, club officials have not confirmed whether he will contribute minutes in Anderlecht’s final regular-season match against Cercle Brugge on May 11 or reserve his return exclusively for the cup final four days later.
The Belgian Cup final holds particular significance for both clubs. Anderlecht seeks to end a three-year trophy drought, while Union Saint-Gilloise aims to secure a domestic double after clinching the league title earlier this month. The match will be broadcast nationally across Belgium and streamed internationally through various sports platforms.
As of Monday morning, De Cat remains listed as day-to-day by Anderlecht’s medical team. No official timetable for his return to competitive action has been released, though his presence at training indicates rehabilitation is progressing ahead of initial projections. The club is expected to provide further updates on his status later in the week ahead of the final.
For continued coverage of Nathan De Cat’s recovery and Anderlecht’s preparations for the Belgian Cup final, follow official club channels and trusted sports news outlets.
