Croatia’s long-serving coach Zlatko Dalić has resigned on Wednesday, joining a wave of high-profile exits from the 2026 World Cup.
The 59-year-old steps down after nearly nine years in charge, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the Vatreni into global contenders.
Dalić took over the national team in October 2017. He immediately guided Croatia to remarkable heights. “As much as I still feel the ambition and desire to achieve new successes with Croatia, I feel that this is the right moment to bring this incredible era to a close,” he said in an emotional statement.
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“I am leaving with a full heart and proud that I have made my contribution to the greatest achievements in the history of Croatian football.”
Dalić boasts a strong record with Croatia: 111 matches, 57 wins, 26 draws, and 28 losses. Across his full managerial career, he has overseen around 515 games with 240 wins (approximately 46.6% win rate). His leadership produced consistent results on the biggest stages.
Under Dalić, Croatia reached the 2018 World Cup final in Russia, where they lost to France despite an inspired run led by Luka Modrić. The team then secured third place at the 2022 Qatar World Cup and advanced to the Euro 2020 last 16.
They also reached the 2023 UEFA Nations League final. These feats rank among Croatia’s proudest moments in international football.
Croatian Football Federation president Marijan Kustić praised the outgoing coach warmly: “Zlatko’s name will remain forever written in golden letters in the history of Croatian football.”
Croatia exited the 2026 World Cup in the group stage or round of 16 after a 2-1 defeat to Portugal earlier this month. The result prompted Dalić to reflect on the need for change.
Local media widely tip former international Slaven Bilić, 57, as the likely successor. Bilić previously coached West Ham United where he also played in the mid-1990s and most recently managed Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia during the 2023-2024 season.
Dalić follows a line of notable coaches who shaped Croatia’s football identity. Early figures included Miroslav Blažević, who led the team to third place at the 1998 World Cup. Slaven Bilić enjoyed success in the 2000s with strong Euro performances. Other prominent names include Niko Kovač, Otto Barić, and Ante Čačić, each contributing to the team’s growth after independence.
Dalić often described his role as “the biggest privilege and pleasure a coach can have.” His departure marks the end of a golden generation featuring stars like Modrić. As Croatia transitions, fans and officials hope the next coach will build on this foundation and sustain the team’s competitive edge in future tournaments.
