Zlatko Dalić speaks about what interests everyone: 'Only now do I see how much support I have'
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Croatian national football team coach Zlatko Dalić is set to meet with the president to discuss his future.
- Dalić expressed gratitude for the support he has received, stating his motivation has never wavered.
- The coach acknowledged public interest in his decision following the team's performance at the World Cup.
Croatian national football team coach Zlatko Dalić is scheduled to meet with the president on Wednesday to discuss his future with the team. Dalić, who has led Croatia for nine years, achieving historic success including a silver medal at the 2018 World Cup and a bronze in 2022, addressed his position following the team's exit in the round of 16 at this year's tournament.
My agreement with the president is that we meet tomorrow and decide what and how to proceed.
"My agreement with the president is that we meet tomorrow and decide what and how to proceed," Dalić stated in an HRT broadcast. "I am aware that everyone is interested; some want me to stay, some want me to go." He emphasized his unwavering commitment, saying, "I will never do anything better than what we are doing. My will and motivation have never been in question."
I am aware that everyone is interested; some want me to stay, some want me to go.
Dalić reflected on the support he has received, noting, "Only now do I see how much support I have." He addressed public perception, acknowledging that some view him as lucky while others call him a tactical novice. "What I cannot accept is that the value of my good work is the value I represent. That cannot be the reason for someone to decide," he asserted.
I will never do anything better than what we are doing. My will and motivation have never been in question.
Looking ahead, Dalić expressed optimism about Croatia's future, stating, "Croatia has a fantastic future, it has fantastic players." He alluded to the emotional nature of their journey, mentioning, "There were tears against Italy, there were tears against Portugal, but there are no successes without tears." The coach indicated that while he is not necessarily unwilling to continue, he has personal matters to resolve before making a final decision.
Only now do I see how much support I have.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.