NK Osijek announced on July 10, 2026, the arrival of Vito Čaić, a 21‑year‑old Croatian U‑21 international and former Dinamo player, who will wear the number 13 shirt. Čaić leaves Maksimir after failing to secure a first‑team spot and signs a three‑year deal with the Slavonian club.

How did the transfer happen?

Dinamo confirmed Čaić’s departure but retained a first‑right of purchase after the first and second year of his Osijek contract. This gives the Zagreb club a chance to bring the young defender back. Čaić previously featured in two official cup matches for Dinamo and captained their junior side, while loan spells in Gorica, Mostar and Vukovar 1991 gave him valuable experience.

What does he bring to Osijek?

Last season with Vukovar 1991, Čaić played 25 HNL games, scored once and provided an assist. Despite his age, he has amassed roughly fifty top‑flight appearances, making him a solid addition to the back line and defensive midfield. He can also operate as a stopper, and his U‑21 experience adds tactical flexibility.

How is the team performing?

NK Osijek currently sits 9th in the HNL with 35 points, recording 8 wins, 11 draws and 17 losses from 36 matches. The side’s recent five‑game run is 2‑0‑3, with the latest result a 2‑0 victory over NK Slaven Belupo on May 22, 2026. The season is tough – the club has scored 27 goals and conceded 49, a –22 goal difference, and trails league leaders Dinamo Zagreb by 51 points. The next fixture is an away game at HNK Gorica on August 1, 2026, where Osijek will aim to climb to 8th place.

What does Čaić expect from his new club?

In a statement for NK Osijek’s official website, Čaić highlighted that he sees Osijek as one of Croatia’s biggest clubs and wants to add a positive atmosphere and a winning story. “Team success is most important to me, and Osijek is a great base for my personal development,” he said. Coach Zoran Zekić emphasized that the youngster will be crucial in strengthening the midfield and expects a quick integration into the system.

What lies ahead?

With Čaić’s arrival, Osijek continues to build a squad that could surprise in the second half of the season. The club hopes the new energy will help reverse its current standing and fight for better results against the league’s top teams. If the formation holds, the upcoming clash with Gorica could be a turning point toward stabilizing and possibly moving up the table.