Dalić's Departure: Why Croatia Will Soon Call for Him Again

Zlatko Dalić's departure as the head coach of the Croatian national football team marks the end of an era, prompting reflection on his nearly decade-long tenure and lasting legacy.

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We are a nation of extreme emotions, needing less than a passenger plane to get from euphoria to destruction.

The author recalls Dalić's challenging start, taking over a team fractured by internal rivalries and marred by incidents that threatened the sport's reputation. Before Dalić, the national team's matches had become a source of division rather than national pride, a stark contrast to the unity he fostered.

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He returned the national team to all of Croatia: to Split, Zagreb, Rijeka, Osijek.

Dalić's success is measured by several key achievements. He is credited with reuniting the team with all of Croatia, restoring a sense of national strength and importance, and transforming the team into a respected global football power. Importantly, he leaves behind a strong, young squad eager for future success, avoiding a complete collapse.

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He created a respectable football power out of Croatia.

Furthermore, Dalić is praised for his unwavering authenticity and independence from the often turbulent politics and financial dealings surrounding the sport. Players, many of whom are young and highly paid, saw him as a genuine leader they could trust both on and off the field. He remained steadfast in his principles throughout his time as coach.

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He left behind not a collapse, but a powerful, young team eager for success.