Dalic steps down as Croatia head coach after almost nine years in charge

Zlatko Dalic has ended his reign as Croatia's head coach. The Croatian Football Federation confirmed the news following a meeting at its headquarters. The 59-year-old informed federation president Marijan Kustić of his decision to walk away after the 2026 World Cup. It brings the curtain down on a tenure that lasted close to nine years. Dalic led the Vatreni through their golden era—a runner-up finish at the 2018 World Cup and a third-place medal in 2022. Now the federation will begin the search for his successor as Croatia turns the page.