Croatia manager Zlatko Dalić has left his position after nine years in charge, the Croatian Football Federation confirmed on Wednesday. The departure comes just days after Croatia’s elimination from Euro 2024 at the hands of Portugal in the round of sixteen.
Dalić took over the Croatian national team in October 2017, initially tasked with guiding them through the World Cup qualifying play-offs. He oversaw a period of unprecedented success for the nation, culminating in a runners-up finish at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where Croatia lost to France in the final.
He continued to build on that achievement, leading Croatia to a third-place finish at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, defeating Morocco in the third-place play-off. More recently, Dalić’s side reached the final of the 2023 UEFA Nations League, ultimately losing to Spain on penalties. His tenure is credited with fostering a golden era for Croatian football, a remarkable feat for a country with a population of just over four million.
Dalić’s departure marks the end of an era for Croatia, with several key players in the squad also nearing the end of their international careers. The Croatian Football Federation described the parting as “a modest arrival, an unforgettable adventure, and a proud farewell” in a statement on social media. The search for a new manager will now begin, as Croatia looks to navigate a period of transition and rebuild for future tournaments. This change in leadership could signal a shift in tactical approach and player development within the national team setup.
