Dalic steps down as Croatia coach after World Cup exit

Zlatko Dalic has stepped down after nine years as Croatia’s head coach following their defeat against Portugal in the World Cup.

The 59-year-old took charge in 2017 and guided Croatia to the final of the 2018 World Cup and third place four years later.

Croatia exited the delayed 2020 European Championship in the last 16 and failed to reach the knockout stage of Euro 2024, although they were runners-up in the 2023 Nations League.

“Following nearly nine years, head coach Zlatko Dalic has decided to close his incredibly successful chapter with Croatia,” said a statement by the Croatia Football Federation.

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“Head coach, thank you for everything, the victories, the achievements, the qualifying berths, the medals, the unity, the respect, and your unwavering commitment to fight for Croatia, both on and off the pitch.”

A 4-2 defeat by England in their opening match of this summer’s World Cup was followed by wins over Panama and Ghana.

Goncalo Ramos’ 94th-minute winner in the first knockout game ended their bid to reach the latter stages of a third successive World Cup.

Captain Luka Modric, 40, has also most likely played his final major tournament and a new era for Croatia is set to begin.