Ghana's Top Striker Saved Dalić's Job and Was the First to Congratulate Him on Silver

Croatian national football team coach Zlatko Dalić enjoys considerable respect in Ghana, the team's upcoming opponent in the World Cup. This admiration is largely due to his successful period coaching the UAE club Al Ain, where he managed Ghanaian football legend Asamoah Gyan.

Gyan, considered one of Ghana's three greatest players alongside Abedi Pele and Michael Essien, spoke highly of Dalić during their time together. Their professional relationship, spanning from March 2014 to the summer of 2015, was a model of mutual respect and fruitful collaboration. Despite the often-tense dynamics between star players and coaches, Dalić and Gyan formed a strong partnership.

During their tenure at Al Ain, one of Asia's top clubs, they secured prestigious titles, including the UAE President's Cup in 2014 and the league championship in the 2014/2015 season. Gyan, who had controversially left Sunderland for Al Ain, later called it "the best decision of my career." Under Dalić's guidance, Gyan remained the team's undisputed leader and top scorer, netting 38 goals in 40 appearances.

Their successful period was not without challenges for Dalić. A critical moment occurred in May 2015 during the Asian Champions League Round of 16. After a goalless first leg against rivals Al Ahli, Al Ain suffered a shocking collapse in the second leg, conceding three goals in five minutes despite an early lead from Gyan. The 3-3 draw resulted in elimination on away goals, leading to immense disappointment and calls for Dalić's dismissal.

However, even amidst this pressure, the relationship between Dalić and Gyan remained strong. Gyan's positive reputation and his endorsement of Dalić likely played a role in the coach navigating this difficult period. The article highlights this connection as a testament to Dalić's character and coaching ability, earning him respect even in the country of his next major opponent.