ZAGREB — Zlatko Dalic resigned as head coach of the Croatia national football team on July 8, 2026. The decision followed Croatia's 2-1 loss to Portugal in the round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup.

Dalic's contract was due to expire at the end of the 2026 World Cup. In a statement released on July 8, 2026, he addressed his tenure. Dalic said, "I have always said that there is no greater honor than leading my national team, and that I cannot have a more important, more responsible, and more beautiful job than this." He continued, "The support in recent days has prompted me to reconsider my decision to leave, but… it’s about time. As much as I still feel the ambition and desire to write new successes with Croatia, I feel that this is the right moment to conclude this incredible era." Dalic added, "I leave with a fulfilled heart, proud of my contribution to the greatest successes of Croatian soccer in history, and I wish my successor, the national team and Croatian soccer many new successes."

Dalic took over as Croatia coach in October 2017. During his tenure, he managed the team in 110 matches, recording 57 wins, 25 draws, and 28 defeats. Under his leadership, Croatia finished as runners-up to France in the 2018 World Cup final. The team also secured third place at the 2022 World Cup after defeating Morocco. Additionally, Croatia finished as runners-up to Spain in the 2023 UEFA Nations League final.

Prior to coaching Croatia, Dalic held coaching positions in Saudi Arabia with Al-Faisaly and Al-Hilal. He also coached Al Ain in the United Arab Emirates, taking over in 2014. He led Al Ain to the 2016 Asian Champions League final and was named coach of the year twice.

Marijan Kustic, head of the Croatian Football Federation, commented on Dalic's departure. Kustic said, "Zlatko's name will remain forever written in golden letters in the history of Croatian football."