Croatia boss Zlatko Dalic steps down after World Cup exit

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The Independent

8 July 2026

Croatia boss

Zlatko Dalic

has stepped down following the nation’s

World Cup

exit, the Croatian Football Federation has announced.

The 59-year-old, who was appointed head coach in October 2017, has ended his near nine-year reign in the

wake of his side’s last 32 defeat by Portugal.

A statement on the federation’s official X account said: “A humble arrival. An unforgettable journey. A proud farewell. Following nearly nine years, head coach Zlatko Dalic has decided to close his incredibly successful chapter with

Croatia

“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

both on and off the pitch.

“The results speak of your coaching virtues. The respect you’ve earned from your players, staff and opponents speaks volumes about the person you are.”

Dalic led

to the final of the 2018 tournament just months after taking charge, before recording a third-placed finish at the

four years later.

He is widely regarded as the nation’s greatest coach in their history, winning more than half of his games in charge.

Zlatko Dalic steps down as Croatia head coach

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