Zlatko Dalić has stepped down as the head coach of the Croatian national football team after a successful nine-year tenure. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) confirmed the decision following a meeting at their headquarters on July 8th.
A Storied Era Comes to an End
Dalić’s departure follows Croatia’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, where they suffered a 1-2 defeat against Portugal in Toronto. Despite taking an early lead through Ivan Perišić, Croatia conceded two late goals to Cristiano Ronaldo and Gonçalo Ramos, ending their World Cup aspirations.
The HNS expressed gratitude for Dalić’s service, stating, “A humble beginning. An unforgettable journey. A proud farewell.” The federation acknowledged his significant contributions, noting, “After nearly nine years, Coach Dalić has marked the end of a brilliant era. Thank you for everything. We are grateful for every moment of dedication and sacrifice shown for Croatia, for the victories, successes, major tournament advancements, medals, the unity of the team, mutual respect, and for the work done on and off the pitch.”
Dalić’s Impact on Croatian Football
Appointed in 2017, Dalić led Croatia through its golden age, notably guiding them to the final of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, where they finished as runners-up. He followed this remarkable achievement with a third-place finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup and a runner-up spot in the 2023 UEFA Nations League. Under his leadership, Croatia also qualified for Euro 2020 and Euro 2024.
Reflecting on his time with the team, Dalić described the decision to leave as one of the most difficult he has ever made. “I have always said that there is no greater honor than leading the national team of my country, and I believe there is no more important and responsible and beautiful task,” he stated. “When I took over the team, I believed in the players’ abilities and in myself, but I never dreamed that we would achieve everything we have in the past nearly nine years.”
A Legacy of Unity and Success
Dalić highlighted the team’s achievements, including victories over strong opponents like England and Brazil, and major tournament qualifications. However, he emphasized that his proudest accomplishment was the unity forged within the team and with the Croatian people. “Above all, I am most proud of the unity that we have built within the team and with the citizens of Croatia,” he said. “I felt this most strongly during the unforgettable celebrations after winning the World Cup medals.”
He also expressed deep gratitude towards the players, particularly captain Luka Modrić and the veteran players who have been with him since the 2018 World Cup, as well as the emerging talents. “It was a great honor to lead such excellent players and wonderful people,” Dalić remarked. “I am deeply grateful that they always put Croatia first and demonstrated the culture of the Croatian national team through their actions, dedication, and attitude.”
Looking Ahead
While the HNS reportedly wished to continue their partnership with Dalić, he felt the time was right to move on. “I thank President Marijan Kustić for his excellent cooperation and great support, and I am grateful for the trust shown in me to continue leading the national team. The support I have received in recent days has made me reconsider my decision to leave,” he explained. “However, the time has come. Although I still have the desire to achieve new successes with Croatia, I feel that this is the right moment to conclude this incredible chapter.”
Dalić concluded his statement with heartfelt wishes for the future: “I leave with a full heart and pride for having contributed, even in a small way, to the greatest successes in the history of Croatian football. I sincerely wish the future coach and the Croatian national team much future success, and I firmly believe in it.”
The departure of Zlatko Dalić marks the end of a highly successful and memorable period for Croatian football, leaving a strong legacy for his successor.
