The Zlatko Dalić resignation was confirmed today following the squad's elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. His departure comes just days after a 2-1 defeat to Portugal in the round of 32, marking the end of a historic era for the team that included two consecutive top-three World Cup finishes.
Why did Zlatko Dalić step down?
Zlatko Dalić decided to step down following Croatia's exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 2-1 loss to Portugal in the round of 32. Despite feeling continued ambition to lead the team, he concluded that this was the right moment to end his tenure. He expressed pride in his contributions to the team's history, noting that leading the national squad was the greatest honor of his career.
What is the legacy of the Dalić era?
During his nearly nine-year tenure, Dalić guided Croatia’s golden generation to unprecedented success on the global stage. Under his leadership, the team secured a runner-up finish at the 2018 World Cup in Russia and a third-place finish at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. The national federation praised his commitment, noting that his results and the respect he earned from players and opponents defined his coaching legacy.
The Croatian national soccer federation has not yet announced a successor to fill the head coaching position.
