Zlatko Dalić resigns as Croatia coach after 2026 World Cup exit

Zlatko Dalić announced his resignation as head coach of the Croatian national football team following Croatia’s 2‑1 defeat to Portugal in the round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a meeting with federation president Marijan Kustić, Dalić said the decision was “the most difficult” of his career and thanked the federation for the support he received during his nine‑year tenure.

During his spell, Dalić guided Croatia to a runner‑up finish at the 2018 World Cup, a bronze medal at the 2022 tournament, and a runners‑up place in the 2023 UEFA Nations League, as well as qualifying for the 2020, 2024 European Championships and the 2026 World Cup. The Croatian Football Federation issued a statement praising his “victories, achievements, medals and unity” and expressing gratitude for his “unwavering commitment”.

The resignation sparked immediate speculation about his successor. Fan polls and media reports highlighted former national coach Slaven Bilić as the leading candidate, with other names such as Ivica Olić, Sergej Jakirović, Edin Terzić, Vedran Ćorluka and Igor Tudor also mentioned. Several outlets reported that the federation expected a decision on a new coach within the week.

Supporters gathered to bid farewell to Dalić, with many calling him the most successful coach in Croatian football history and saying a comparable successor would be hard to find.