Dalić quits as Croatia coach after nine years in charge

Zlatko Dalić is stepping down as Croatia coach after nine years, which included finishing runners-up at the 2018 World Cup.

The Croatian Football Federation announced the decision in a statement on Wednesday, five days after the 2026 World Cup last-32 defeat to Portugal.

"Coach, thank you for everything - the victories, the successes, the qualifications, the medals, the unity, the respect and your unwavering commitment to fight for Croatia both on and off the pitch," the federation wrote.

Dalić led Croatian men's football to the most successful era in its history. In 2018, Croatia reached the World Cup final in Russia and lost 4-2 to France. Four years later in Qatar, Croatia finished third at the World Cup, with Dalić's team beating Morocco 2-1 in the third-place play-off.

In 2023, Dalić and Croatia lost the Nations League final on penalties to Spain.

According to media reports, he has already received an offer from the United Arab Emirates.

Assistant coach Ivica Olić and former boss Slaven Bilić are being touted as possible successors.