Croatian striker Andrej Kramarić to miss start of qualifiers after abdominal surgery

Andrej Kramarić underwent abdominal wall surgery in Slovenia following a hernia that surfaced during the World Cup. Medical estimates give a recovery period of roughly two months, meaning he is expected to miss the opening matches of Croatia’s new qualifying cycle under coach Slaven Bilić.

Bilić will take charge for the first time in September, with Croatia scheduled to face the Czech Republic in Prague on 26 September, then Spain three days later, England on 3 October and Spain again on 6 October. Kramarić, who previously logged limited minutes – only 70 minutes across four matches under Zlatko Dalić – was a key offensive option and his absence will be a notable loss for the new regime.

The striker, who recently signed a two‑year contract with Hoffenheim, aims to return to full fitness in time for the autumn fixtures and remain a candidate for future tournaments, including Euro 2028.