Zlatko Dalic steps down as Croatia head coach | OneFootball

Zlatko Dalic has stepped down as Croatia head coach, bringing an end to a hugely successful nine-year spell in charge of the national team.

His departure comes just days after Croatia were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup following a last-16 defeat to Portugal.

Dalic leaves as one of the most successful managers in Croatian football history. He guided the Vatreni to the 2018 World Cup final, where they finished runners-up to France, before leading them to third place at the 2022 tournament after overcoming Morocco in the play-off. 

The 58-year-old took charge of 110 matches, recording 57 wins, 25 draws and 28 defeats. He also steered Croatia to the UEFA Nations League final in 2023, where they narrowly lost to Spain on penalties.

Croatia's football federation paid tribute to Dalic, praising both his achievements on the pitch and the respect he earned throughout his time in charge.