Zlatko Dalić Steps Down as Croatia Coach After World Cup Exit
Zlatko Dalić, aged 59, has resigned as the head coach of the Croatia national team, concluding a remarkable nine‑year spell in charge. His departure was confirmed by the Croatian Football Federation shortly after the side’s elimination from the 2022 FIFA World Cup at the hands of Portugal.
Under Dalić’s leadership, Croatia enjoyed one of its most successful periods in football history. He guided the Vatreni to the final of the 2018 World Cup in Russia and secured a third‑place finish at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Additionally, the team finished as runners‑up in the 2023 UEFA Nations League.
Despite these achievements, recent tournaments have been less forgiving. Croatia was knocked out in the round of 16 at the delayed Euro 2020 and failed to advance beyond the group stage at Euro 2024. The decisive moment in their World Cup campaign came against Portugal, when Gonçalo Ramos netted a dramatic 94th‑minute winner to seal a 2‑1 victory for the Iberians.
The federation’s statement praised Dalić for his dedication:
“Following nearly nine years, head coach Zlatko Dalić has decided to close his incredibly successful chapter with Croatia. Head coach, thank you for everything — the victories, the achievements, the qualifying berths, the medals, the unity, the respect, and your unwavering commitment to fight for Croatia, both on and off the pitch.”
Dalić’s resignation also raises questions about the future of talisman Luka Modrić, who, at 40, is widely expected to have played his final major international tournament.
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