Zlatko Dalic Steps Down as Croatia National Team Coach

Zlatko Dalic has announced his departure as head coach of the Croatia national team after informing Croatian Football Federation president, Marian Kostić, during a meeting at the federation's headquarters of his decision to end his tenure following the 2026 World Cup.

The official website of the Croatian Football Federation stated that Dalic leaves his position as the most successful and longest-serving coach in the team's history, having led them to the runner-up spot in the 2018 World Cup, third place in the 2022 edition, and the runner-up position in the 2023 UEFA Nations League, in addition to qualifying for Euro 2020, Euro 2024, and the 2026 World Cup.

Dalic confirmed that the decision to leave was the hardest of his career, noting that leading his national team was the greatest honor of his life, and he feels immense pride in what the team has achieved over nearly nine years, both in terms of results and the spirit that united players and fans.

The Croatian coach also expressed gratitude to his coaching staff, medical and administrative teams, federation officials, fans, media, and his family, emphasizing that the successes achieved were the result of collective effort and continuous support.

Dalic added that he feels grateful to have led a group of players who prioritized Croatia's interests above all else, from captain Luka Modric to the younger talents, expressing confidence in the future of the Croatian national team in the coming years.

He confirmed that the support he received made him reconsider his decision to leave, but he believes the time has come to end this chapter, wishing his successor and the Croatian national team further successes.