Zlatko Dalić a annoncé qu'il quittait le banc de la sélection de Croatie !

Zlatko Dalić has stepped down as head coach of the Croatian national football team following Croatia's early exit from the World Cup in the United States. The team was eliminated in the round of 16 after losing 2:1 to Portugal in regular time. This marks the first World Cup under Dalić’s leadership without a medal, ending his tenure which began in 2017. Dalić had previously led Croatia to silver in Russia 2018 and bronze in Qatar 2022, making him the most successful coach in Croatian football history.

The Croatian Football Association (HNS) announced Dalić’s departure via a heartfelt message on its official Instagram account. The statement read: “A modest beginning. An unforgettable journey. A proud farewell. After nearly nine years, coach Zlatko Dalić has decided to end his incredible era at the helm of the Vatreni (Fire). Coaches, thank you for everything – for victories, successes, qualifications, medals, unity, respect, and determined fight for Croatia on and off the field. Results speak about what kind of coach you are, and the respect from players, colleagues, and opponents speaks about what kind of person you are.”

Dalić took over the Croatian team during the qualification process for the 2017 World Cup, succeeding Ante Čačić after a draw with Finland. At the time, Croatia faced the threat of failing to qualify, but Dalić successfully secured a spot in Russia 2018. Under his guidance, Croatia achieved their greatest success in history by winning the silver medal. He also led them to a bronze medal at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar and a second-place finish in the UEFA Nations League in 2023.

Before taking charge of the national team, Dalić had a coaching career spanning several clubs, including Varteks, Rijeka, and Slaven Belupo. He later moved east, working in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, where he coached teams such as Al-Faisaly, Al-Hilal, and Al-Ain. His longest stint away from Croatia was with Al-Ain, before returning to lead the national team.

In a press conference held at the headquarters of the Croatian Football Association, Dalić formally announced his decision to step down. He addressed the president of the association, Marijan Kustić, stating that this was the hardest decision he had ever made in his coaching career. Dalić emphasized that leading the national team was the highest honor and the most important job he could have. However, despite the achievements and milestones reached together, he felt it was the right time to conclude his tenure.

“I believe it’s impossible to achieve such successes without quality, effort, and belief in what you’re doing,” Dalić said. He thanked all those who contributed to the team’s success, including his staff, medical personnel, physiotherapists, economists, and the entire logistics team of the HNS. He also expressed gratitude to the leaders of the federation, fans, media, and his family for their support throughout his tenure.

Dalić acknowledged the importance of the players on the field, praising the talent and dedication of the athletes he had the privilege of coaching. He highlighted the contributions of captain Luka Modrić and other senior players, as well as younger talents who were integrated into the squad. He believed that Croatia’s future remained bright, and he wished the new coach and the national team continued success.

He also thanked President Kustić for his unwavering support and excellent collaboration. While recent support had made him reconsider his decision, Dalić ultimately concluded that this was the correct moment to wrap up his remarkable chapter. He left with a full heart, proud of his contribution to the greatest successes in Croatian football history, and hopeful for the future of the national team.

Dalić’s departure ends an era marked by significant achievements and a deep connection with both the players and the nation. His legacy will be remembered not just for the medals won, but for the unity and passion he brought to the sport in Croatia. As the country moves forward, the focus will shift to selecting a new coach capable of continuing the tradition of excellence established under Dalić’s leadership.