Zlatko Dalić leaves Croatia job after nine years in charge

Zlatko Dalić

ZAGREB, Croatia, 8 July 2026 — Zlatko Dalić has informed the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) that he will end his role as head coach of the Croatia national team following the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Dalić announced his decision during a meeting at HNS headquarters with federation president Marijan Kustić, bringing to an end one of the most successful and longest coaching periods in the history of Croatian football.

Appointed in 2017, Dalić led Croatia through the most successful era in the national team’s history, guiding the Vatreni to three major international medals.

Under his leadership, Croatia reached the FIFA World Cup final in 2018 in Russia, winning the silver medal, before securing bronze at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. He also guided Croatia to a silver medal in the 2023 UEFA Nations League.

During his tenure, Croatia qualified for UEFA European Championships in 2020 and 2024, as well as the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“I always said there is no greater honour than leading your national team, and I could not have had a more important, responsible and beautiful job,” Dalić said.

“When I took over the team, I believed in the quality of the players and in myself, but I could not have dreamed that we would achieve everything we have achieved over these almost nine years.”

Dalić said he was proud of the victories, tournament qualifications and medals won during his time in charge, but highlighted the unity created between the team and Croatian supporters as one of the greatest achievements.

He thanked his coaching staff, medical team, support personnel, federation leadership, fans, media and his family for their contribution throughout his time as national coach.

The Croatian manager also praised the players who represented the country during his tenure, from captain Luka Modrić and the experienced generation that reached the 2018 World Cup final to younger players who have taken on increasingly important roles.

“I was deeply privileged to have the opportunity to lead such great footballers and quality people,” Dalić said. “They always put Croatia first and showed through their behaviour, commitment and approach what the Croatian national team represents.”

Dalić said he had received support to continue in the role, but felt the time had come to conclude the chapter.

“The support I received in recent days encouraged me to reconsider my decision, but… the time has come,” he said.

“Although I still feel ambition and desire to achieve new successes with Croatia, I believe this is the right moment to end this incredible era.”

Zlatko Dalić and Luka Modrić

Dalić leaves the position as Croatia’s most successful national team coach, having transformed the Vatreni into one of the most consistent teams in international football.

He expressed confidence in the future of Croatian football and wished success to his successor, the national team and Croatian football.