An Underdog Turned World-Class Tactician: Zlatko Dalic’s Truths

For a man who guided Croatia to a World Cup runner-up finish in 2018 and a third-place triumph in 2022, Zlatko Dalić has firmly established himself as one of football’s top tacticians. In an often unforgiving football landscape, his bold decision to boycott the FIFA awards vote speaks volumes about his unwavering belief that Croatia deserves more recognition. Before diving deep into his remarkable biography, which tells a story from moments of his childhood to when he achieved fame, let’s explore why Dalić publicly criticized FIFA.

He pointed out that Croatia was the only national team to reach the top four at both the World Cup in Qatar and the preceding UEFA Nations League. Not only did his team make headlines worldwide by defeating Neymar’s Brazil and Kylian Mbappé’s France, but Croatia was also the only nation to secure medals in both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups. In Dalić’s eyes, victories over France in Paris, Denmark in Copenhagen, and eliminating Brazil and Belgium from the tournament were no small feats. Yet, when the list of 14 candidates for The Best FIFA Men’s Player was announced, only Luka Modrić from Croatia was recognized—an omission that Dalić called a clear sign of the unfair treatment his team faces on the global stage.

To truly understand Zlatko Dalić, we must delve into his background. This biography offers insights into his childhood, early life, and family, including his parents, Ivan and Kata Dalić, his siblings, Mladenka and Miran, as well as his wife, Davorka Propadalo, and their children, Toni and Bruno.

Now, let’s delve into the full biography of Zlatko Dalić and uncover the story of a manager whose tactical genius and unyielding commitment have elevated Croatian football to extraordinary heights.

Preamble:

Zlatko’s story is a powerful example of how humble beginnings and unwavering perseverance can lead to great achievements. Raised in a peaceful environment near a church and monastery, his early life was deeply rooted in faith and service as a minister. It was in these serene surroundings that the foundations of his future greatness were laid.

Fate eventually called him to football, leading Zlatko into a thrilling journey where determination and faith became his guiding forces. He faced numerous challenges, yet through relentless effort, he turned obstacles into stepping stones, making his mark in the highly fierce and competitive world of football management.

What truly set Zlatko apart wasn’t just his skill or tactics. His steadfast dedication to Christian values shaped his character and leadership. Through victories and setbacks, he stayed grounded in his principles, standing as a symbol of integrity in a world often clouded by moral uncertainty. Now, as he basks in the recognition and respect of the football world, Zlatko embodies the power of faith, resilience, and an unbreakable spirit.

Moreover, his journey is intertwined with a childhood anecdote—his elder brother gave him the nickname of a famous footballer, Zlatko Škorić. This early connection to football served as a constant reminder of the destiny that would eventually lead him to become a prominent figure in the sport.

This biography aims to satisfy your curiosity about Zlatko Dalić’s life. To enhance your experience, we’ve included a photo gallery that highlights key moments from his early soccer career to his rise to prominence.

Zlatko Dalic’s Childhood Story:

For Biography starters, his full name is Zlatko Dalic. His older brother, Mladenka, played a significant role in naming him. At birth, his brother proposed naming him after Slaven Zambata or Zlatko Skoric, both notable football figures.

In the end, his brother decisively opted for Zlatko, his passion for football serving as the gravitational force guiding their decision. The youngster was born on the 26th day of October 1966 under the Scorpio Zodiac Sign.

Zlatko’s birth occurred in Livno, a city in Bosnia and Herzegovina, to his wonderful Parents – Dad (Ivan Dalic) and Mum (Kata Dalic). Dalic is the third and youngest child born among his older brother, Mladenka, and Sister, Miran, to their loving parents whose photo follows.

Growing-Up:

Dalic’s formative years occurred in Livno, SR Bosnia and Herzegovina, Yugoslavia. Growing up in Livno in the late 1960s was characterized by a special mix of cultural heritage and community spirit.

Livno, situated in the picturesque landscape of Bosnia and Herzegovina, offered its residents a close-knit and traditional way of life.

He grew up in a tightly closed community with his dad, mum, brother, and sister. Being the youngest, he was pressured to live up to his older siblings’ achievements. As a result, they meet certain parental expectations.

As the youngest child, there was also a sense of closeness to their siblings. For Zlatko Dalic, growing up in Livno meant experiencing a childhood deeply rooted in family values, community bonds, and outdoor activities.

The town’s serene surroundings provided ample opportunities for exploration and play, with outdoor pursuits such as football often serving as a focal point of leisure.

In an interview, he once said about his childhood, “Water and the sea are two of my favourite things. I grew up by the sea, and my home on the Drava is where I feel most at ease now.”

He grew up during the time of communist Yugoslavia. During this time, Livno was part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, a period marked by the principles of socialist ideology under the leadership of Josip Broz Tito.

The socialist policies emphasized equality, education, and social welfare, contributing to solidarity among the people. Dalic’s childhood was deeply influenced by his proximity to the Franciscan church and monastery.

Dalic as a Church Boy:

Raised by his mother, Kata, he was actively involved in religious activities from a young age. His upbringing revolved around attending church regularly. He served as a minister. Therefore, his routine became an integral part of his daily life.

Growing up amidst the spiritual ambience of the church, Zlatko absorbed the values of faith, discipline, and community. The religious teachings and rituals instilled in him a sense of responsibility and reverence, shaping his character and guiding his actions.

As he ventured beyond the confines of his home, Zlatko carried with him the spiritual upbringing imparted by his mother and the church, serving as a steadfast foundation in his journey through life.

Thus, his childhood was characterized by a strong connection to his faith and upbringing, which continued to influence him as he embarked on his path to adulthood. As a child, the father said Dalic was persistent in everything he did. He was good and obedient.

Zlatko Dalic’s Early Life (Football):

His love for Soccer blossomed from an early age, nurtured by the vibrant football culture within his family. Growing up in a household divided between fans of Dinamo and Hajduk Split. He was immersed in the excitement and passion surrounding the sport.

His father’s enthusiastic attendance at matches of the football Club Split, often travelling by bicycle with friends, and his brother’s fervent support for another club, Dinamo, instilled in Zlatko a deep appreciation for football.

As he observed his family’s fervour for the game, Zlatko’s interest in football ignited, fueling his desire to become actively involved in the sport.

From playing informal matches with friends to avidly following football news and matches, he embraced football as more than just a pastime—it became a significant part of his identity and upbringing.

The naming of Zlatko, influenced by football icons of the time, further solidified his connection to the sport. His brother named him after Zlatko Skoric, a notable football figure.

As he grew older, Zlatko’s passion for football continued to flourish, leading him to pursue opportunities to play and engage with the game at various levels.

Ultimately, his childhood experiences within a football-loving family laid the foundation for his enduring love and dedication to the sport throughout his life.

Dalic started playing football at a very young age. As a 7-year-old, he joined his first club, NK Varteks, in Varazdin. He stood out for his tenacious approach in midfield.

Family Background:

The Soccer Boss comes from a humble household. He was raised with strong values and principles. His parents, Ivan and Kata Dalic played significant roles in shaping his early life.

Despite living in Livno, Bosnia and Herzegovina, where life could be tough, his parents found a way to make ends meet.

Zlatko’s parents’ perseverance and dedication taught him important qualities like kindness, resilience, and determination from a young age. Their unwavering commitment to their hometown and strong family values left a lasting impact on Zlatko’s upbringing.

Introducing Davorka Dalic – Zlatko Dalic’s Wife:

He enjoys a fulfilling family life off the football field with his wife, Davorka Dalic, with whom he tied the knot in 1992. Together, they have built a strong foundation centred around love, mutual support, and dedication to their family.

Their union has been blessed with two children, Toni and Bruno Dalic, who undoubtedly bring joy and pride to their parents. In 2017, Zlatko and Davorka celebrated a remarkable milestone, commemorating their 25th wedding anniversary.

This significant occasion served as a testament to their enduring commitment and unwavering bond over the years.

To mark this special moment, the couple gathered with their loved ones, including friends, family members, and even media personalities, to share in their joy and reminisce about their journey together.

Away from the hustle and bustle of football, the Dalic family finds solace and relaxation at their property near the serene Drava River. Here, amidst the tranquillity of nature, they indulge in leisurely pursuits and create cherished memories with their nearest and dearest.

It’s a place where they can unwind, recharge, and bask in the warmth of each other’s company. Furthermore, the Dalics often open their home to guests, hosting gatherings and celebrations that foster camaraderie and create lasting connections.

Their hospitality extends to welcoming friends, family members, and media personalities, reflecting their generous spirit and inclusive nature.

Through their shared experiences and unwavering support for one another, Zlatko and Davorka Dalic exemplify the beauty of a loving partnership and the importance of nurturing meaningful relationships on and off the field.

More about Zlatko Dalic’s Wife – Davorka Dalic:

The wife of the Croatian national football manager is a graduate economist who chooses to keep a low profile. She avoids the media spotlight. She married Zlatko in 1992, and they have been together ever since. They have two children, Toni and Bruno.

Toni works as an IT engineer and part-time DJ, while Bruno studies management at an American university in Croatia’s capital. Davorka sacrificed for her family, giving up her career to care for her children when Zlatko was busy with his football career.

Zlatko acknowledges Davorka’s sacrifices and is grateful for her support, recognizing that her hard work contributed to his success. In 2017, they celebrated their 25th wedding anniversary with family and friends.

The Dalic family owns a property near Drava, where they relax and host gatherings. After Croatia’s success in the 2018 FIFA World Cup, they began inviting guests, including media personalities.

Zlatko Dalic’s Family Life:

Highlighting the crucial role of the family in his sports career, Dalic receives invaluable support and encouragement from his loved ones as he navigates his professional journey.

Stay tuned for further insights into the impact of his family on the fascinating player’s life and career.

Zlatko Dalic’s Father:

Ivan Dalic is the Dad of the Croatian Soccer Boss. Their relationship was deeply meaningful and close. Zlatko often spoke about his immense devotion to his father and family, indicating their strong bond.

Ivan played a significant role in Zlatko’s life, offering guidance, support, and encouragement throughout his journey in football and beyond. Ivan’s passing undoubtedly left a profound void in Zlatko’s life, as he cherished his father’s wisdom and advice.

Zlatko’s commitment to his family was evident in his frequent visits to his hometown in Livno and his parents’ house, especially when Ivan and Zlatko’s mother, Kata, were unwell.

Despite the demands of his coaching career, Zlatko prioritized being there for his family, demonstrating the depth of his love and respect for his parents.

Their relationship was characterized by mutual admiration and respect, with Ivan undoubtedly proud of Zlatko’s achievements as both a coach and a person.

Zlatko, in turn, valued his father’s guidance and sought to make him proud through his successes in football. The passing of Ivan marked a significant loss for Zlatko, but his legacy lives on through the enduring impact he had on his son’s life and career.

Zlatko Dalic’s Mother:

As a parent, Kata Dalic made significant sacrifices, dedicating her time and resources to support her son’s pursuit of his sports dreams. She likely played a crucial role in guiding his education, instilling in him the values of responsibility and perseverance.

Her influence on his life and career is clear in his unwavering dedication to his football journey. In her reflections shared with Croatian media, Kata Dalic expressed her worries and fears for her son’s safety during his football matches.

Despite these concerns, she remained a steadfast source of love and support for Zlatko throughout his career. Her words underscored her deep love and protective instinct towards her son, highlighting the profound impact of familial support in sports.

Sadly, Kata Dalic passed away at the age of 90, marking a somber moment for the Dalic family. Despite being recently released from the hospital, her health deteriorated, prompting her desire to spend her final days surrounded by loved ones.

Zlatko Dalic, deeply devoted to his mother, spent the last ten days by her side, providing comfort and support during her final moments. This loss comes just a year after Zlatko Dalic mourned the passing of his father, Ivan Dalic.

Zlatko Dalic Siblings:

As previously mentioned in his childhood narrative, Zlatko Dalic, the soccer maestro, is the youngest among his siblings. His older brother, Mladenka Dalic, and sister, Miran Dalic, played integral roles in his upbringing.

Their presence in his life offered unwavering love and support, creating a solid foundation for Zlatko Dalic’s emotional development. This strong support network bolstered his confidence and nurtured his mental resilience as he navigated his football journey.

Interestingly, his siblings shared his passion for football, a love for the sport that was passed down from their father, further strengthening their familial bond.

Zlatko Dalic Relatives:

As a soccer Star, he keeps details about his extended family private, prioritizing their privacy and shielding them from excessive public attention and scrutiny.

Despite this discretion, his relationships with family members hold significant importance to him. Dalic likely has aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins, nephews, nieces, and possibly in-laws within his extended family.

These familial connections contribute to his support system and play a vital role in his personal life, providing him with love, guidance, and companionship beyond the football field.

Zlatko Dalic Family Origin:

He hails from a Bosnian Croat family. He was born to his mother, Kata, and father, Ivan, in Livno, which was part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia.

While Livno is located in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Dalic holds Croatian citizenship and has spent most of his life in Croatia, where his career has primarily unfolded. The surname “Dalic” is prevalent in Croatia, indicating strong ties to Croatian heritage.

Therefore, it is accurate to identify Zlatko Dalic as Croatian. Croatia, situated in Southeastern Europe, shares borders with Slovenia, Hungary, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, and the Adriatic Sea.

To illustrate this aspect more clearly, a visual aid can enhance understanding of his cultural background and heritage. Good enough, he shares a close origin with the Serbia soccer boss, Dragan Stojkovic, and Benjamin Sesko‘s mother.

Zlatko Dalic Ethnicity:

As a Croat, the football manager belongs to the South Slavic ethnic group from Croatia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, and nearby nations in Southeastern Europe.

They share a unified Croatian ancestry, cultural heritage, historical background, and language. They are generally considered part of the Caucasian race.

Zlatko Dalic Education:

His education was influenced by the socialist principles of the Yugoslav government during his time in Livno. Like other children in the area, he began schooling at a young age, around six or seven years old.

Dalic attended compulsory primary education for a set number of years. Following his primary education, Dalic enrolled at Livno High School, where he encountered the love of his life.

Subsequently, Dalic transitioned into a football academy, which provided a more structured environment for his passion for soccer. This strategic decision allowed him to balance his academic commitments effectively while nurturing his enthusiasm for football.

Zlatko Dalic Biography – Football Story:

His journey in Soccer began in his youth at Troglav 1918 Livno, where he sharpened his skills before catching the eye of Vladimir Beara, a renowned Yugoslav goalkeeper and coach.

Beara recognized Dalic’s potential and recommended him to Hajduk Split, a team located 60 miles away from his hometown. Despite the distance, Dalic’s father, Ivan, faithfully supported him by biking to Hajduk matches.

Joining Hajduk Split in 1983 marked the start of Dalic’s senior career. Thus providing him with experience and opportunities to showcase his talent on a professional level.

His time at Hajduk Split, which lasted until 1986, was characterized by significant contributions to the team’s successes, earning him recognition for his skills on the pitch.

Following his departure from Hajduk Split, Dalic continued his football journey by joining Cibalia, formerly known as Dinamo Vinkovci.

This move opened up another chapter in his career, allowing him to develop as a player and adapt to different playing styles.

His unwavering commitment to the sport enabled him to make significant contributions to Cibalia during his tenure there.

The talented football strategist played for different clubs, each offering him unique experiences and challenges. He showcased his talents at clubs like Buducnost Titograd, where he made significant contributions to the team’s successes.

Additionally, he played for Velez Mostar and Varteks. This allowed him to compete at different levels and against various opponents. In 2000, Dalic decided to retire from playing football, marking the end of his illustrious career.

Road to Fame Story:

His dedication, passion, and skill on the field made a lasting impact on the sport. Although he stopped playing, Dalic’s influence in football continued as he transitioned into coaching and managing teams.

Dalic ventured into football management in 2007 when he assumed his first managerial role with HNK Rijeka. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see him navigate various clubs, each presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities for growth.

His tenure at clubs such as FK Dinamo, Slaven Belupo Koprivnica, and Al-Faisaly FC allowed him to refine his managerial skills and tactics while gaining valuable experience in different footballing environments.

However, during his time with Al-Ain FC, Dalic truly showcased his managerial prowess. From 2014 to 2017, he steered the club through 106 matches, demonstrating an impressive average of 2.08 points per match.

His strategic and tactical acumen, including his ability to motivate players, was instrumental in Al-Ain FC’s successes during this period, solidifying his reputation as a skilled and effective manager.

In addition to his tenure at Al-Ain FC, Dalic had brief stints with Al-Hilal SFC and their U23 team. Although these periods may have been short-lived, they provided him with valuable insights and experiences that further enriched his managerial toolkit.

Throughout his managerial career, he has proven himself adaptable, innovative, and capable of achieving success in diverse footballing landscapes.

His dedication to the sport and his players, combined with his tactical astuteness, has cemented his position as one of the prominent figures in football management.

Zlatko Dalic Bio – Rise to Fame Story:

The soccer geek’s most significant and recognized role came when he assumed leadership of the Croatia national team in 2017. His tenure as manager ushered in a period of unprecedented success for Croatian football.

Under his guidance, the team achieved remarkable feats, most notably finishing as runners-up in the 2018 FIFA World Cup and securing a third-place finish in the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Dalic’s management style has been praised for instilling a strong sense of fighting spirit within the Croatian squad, as well as for his tactical acumen and strategic approach to matches.

Despite achieving remarkable progress on the international stage, Dalic has often preferred to remain out of the spotlight, allowing his players to take centre stage.

Croatia’s determination in the 2018 World Cup in Russia helped them reach their first-ever final. Despite losing to France, the country of 4 million people still saw them as champions.

During the 2018 World Cup, Croatia captured the imagination of football fans worldwide with their impressive performances and resilience, overcoming formidable opponents to reach the final for the first time in their history.

While they fell short of clinching the ultimate prize, Dalic’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the team through the tournament’s challenges and achieving an unprecedented runner-up finish.

When he was the coach of the Croatian National team, Luka Modric was known as their best player.

2022 FIFA World Cup:

In the subsequent 2022 FIFA World Cup, Croatia demonstrated their quality under Dalic’s management, securing a third-place finish and further solidifying their status as a formidable force in international football.

Dalić’s preferred tactical formation for Croatia has been the 4-3-3, which often involves utilizing Luka Modric as an attacking midfielder or in a deeper playmaking role alongside Marcelo Brozovic and Mateo Kovacic.

Dalic’s ability to motivate and strategize, coupled with his humility and understated presence, have endeared him to players and fans, establishing him as one of the most respected figures in Croatian football history.

Personality:

He deeply loves the water and the sea, a passion that traces back to his childhood spent by the seaside. Today, he finds solace and relaxation at his cottage on the Drava River.

Notwithstanding his demanding schedule as a football coach, Dalic cherishes moments of tranquillity on his boat, a recent addition to his leisure pursuits.

Initially, his hectic coaching commitments left little time for vacations, but upon returning from the Emirate a few years ago, he seized the opportunity to indulge in sailing.

Dalic’s affinity for sailing blossomed as he gradually embarked on short trips, gradually building his confidence and expertise.

From exploring nearby Pag to venturing further to Brac, his sailing adventures offer him a sense of freedom and escape from the pressures of his professional life.

For Dalic, a perfect vacation entails anchoring in a quiet bay with his family, creating cherished memories in their own private haven.

Through sailing, he continues to embrace the serenity of the sea, forging unforgettable experiences amidst the vast expanse of water.

Beyond his football career, Zlatko indulges in various hobbies and interests. His diverse passions include travelling, music, gaming, workouts, and swimming, as seen from his social media presence and interviews.

Despite his wide-ranging interests, football remains a lifelong hobby for Dalic. Many of his close friends are also footballers, highlighting his strong bond with fellow players.

Above all, Dalic values spending quality time with his friends and family. He prioritizes rest and recovery to improve his performance on the field, emphasizing the importance of balance in his life.

Social Media Presence:

Although Zlatko Dalic is present on social media, he maintains a reserved and private approach. He doesn’t share many personal details but lets his fans connect with him through posts about his achievements in football.

On Instagram, he frequently updates his followers about his professional football career, sharing highlights, game moments, and glimpses of his training routine.

However, Dalic primarily focuses on football-related content and doesn’t reveal much about his personal life or relationships. He has a significant following on Instagram, with over 320,000 followers on his @daliczlatko account.

His social media activity suggests that he prioritizes his sports career over sharing detailed aspects of his lifestyle. While interacting with his followers through football-related posts, he prefers to keep the details of his personal life relatively private.

Sun Sign Zodiac:

As a Scorpio, Zlatko Dalic embodies traits such as determination, passion, intensity, and resourcefulness. Scorpios are known for deep emotional intelligence and resilience, allowing them to navigate challenges assertively.

They are driven by their desires and ambitions, willing to delve into the depths of any situation to uncover the truth. While Scorpios are loyal and devoted to those they care about, they can also be secretive and possessive.

Other professional footballers under the Scorpio Zodiac include Micah Hamilton (Left Winger), Joey Veerman (Central Midfield), Ezri Konsa (Centre-Back), Antonio Silva (Centre-Back), Robert Sanchez (Goalkeeper) etc.

Zlatko Dalic Lifestyle:

The manager of the Croatia national team has indeed overseen a period of unprecedented success, particularly in the FIFA World Cup tournaments.

Despite this success, he tends to avoid the spotlight compared to other coaches, preferring to focus on his team’s performance rather than personal recognition.

Dalić’s preferred tactical formation for Croatia has been the 4-3-3. This formation and tactical setup have been instrumental in Croatia’s achievements on the international stage.

Under Dalić’s management, Croatia has been known for its pragmatic style of play, which has sometimes been criticized for being overly defensive.

However, this approach has proven effective, particularly in knockout matches where they have relied on penalty kicks and extra time to secure victories. Dalic’s success has elevated Croatia’s footballing reputation and likely increased his earning potential.

This financial success has translated into a luxurious lifestyle, including lavish mansions, extravagant vacations, fine dining experiences, and a collection of high-end automobiles.

Given his penchant for luxury cars, it’s reasonable to assume that Dalić owns several expensive vehicles, further showcasing his affluence and status as a sports champion.

Notwithstanding his wealth and success, he remains grounded and focused on coaching responsibilities with the Croatia national team.

Untold Facts:

In the final chapter of Zlatko Dalic’s journey, we’ll unveil some fascinating details about the Croatian football manager and former player. So, let’s dive in without further delay.

Salary Breakdown:

As of 2024, Zlatko Dalić’s net worth, according to Sports Brief, is estimated to be around $5 million. He earns this money mainly from his job as a professional football coach, along with endorsements and other sources of income.

His contract with the Croatian national team pays him approximately $1.66 million annually. This contract is set to continue until 2024, meaning he will lead the team into the Euro 2024 tournament.

Dalic was ranked as the 24th highest-paid manager at the 2022 FIFA World Cup compared to other international football managers.

The highest-paid manager was Hans-Dieter Flick from Germany, earning €6.5 million annually, followed by Gareth Southgate from England with approximately €5.8 million annually.

The French national team, led by Didier Deschamps, also has one of the highest-paid managers in the world, earning around €3.8 million annually.

Other well-paid managers include those from Brazil, the Netherlands, Mexico, Argentina, Qatar, and Portugal, earning between €2 million and €3 million per year.

Among African teams, the highest-paid coach is Vahid Halilhodzic from Morocco, earning €920,000 annually. Rigobert Song from Cameroon earns €340,000 annually, and Aliou Cisse from Senegal earns €310,000 annually.

Zlatko Dalic Religion:

There is speculation on social media about Zlatko Dalic’s religious beliefs, with some suggesting he might be Muslim. However, reports indicate that he is a Roman Catholic.

His public display of reciting the Rosary before games supports this claim. Zlatko was brought up in a Catholic family.

Slams FIFA Awards for Lack of Recognition:

The Croatian coach, Zlatko, didn’t hold back his thoughts about the recent FIFA Football Awards. He spoke through his country’s federation and criticized FIFA and Best Player, Coach, and Goalkeeper Award nominees.

Dalic was upset that Croatia, who finished third in the 2022 World Cup, reached the 2018 final, and qualified for the Nations League final four, didn’t get enough recognition. He didn’t even vote in the awards.

Summary EndNote:

Zlatko Dalić, the renowned football tactician known for his special chemistry with his Croatian players, was born on October 26, 1966, in Livno, Bosnia and Herzegovina. Dalic started his football career as a youth player at Troglav 1918 Livno before joining Hajduk Split in 1983, marking the start of his senior career.

He remained with Hajduk Split until 1986 before moving to Cibalia, then known as Dinamo Vinkovci. In addition to playing for Hajduk Split and Cibalia, Dalic also had stints at Buducnost Titograd, Velez Mostar, and Varteks.

He retired from playing professionally in 2000, concluding his career at Varteks. Transitioning to coaching, Dalic has been at the helm of the Croatia national team since 2017.

Under his management, Croatia achieved significant success. They secured a second-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup as well as a third-place finish at the 2022 FIFA World Cup.

Off the field, Dalić has a family life with his wife, Davorka Dalic, whom he married in 1992. They have two children together, Toni and Bruno Dalic. In less than two years, Zlatko faced the loss of both his parents, his father, Ivan, and his mother, Kata.

Around the same time, France coach Didier Deschamps experienced a similar loss. His father, Pierre, passed away during preparations for the Nations League. It was a period marked by the coincidental loss of parents for both coaches.

Appreciation Note:

We want to extend our heartfelt gratitude for taking the time to read our article about Zlatko Dalic. Your engagement is truly appreciated. We are delighted you found value in our ongoing efforts to bring you captivating stories from European football.

Zlatko Dalic’s biography is a proud addition to our men’s football stories collection. Please contact us with questions regarding this memoir.

In addition to Zlatko Dalic’s biography, we offer compelling football stories featuring players from Bosnia and Herzegovina for your reading enjoyment. Explore the life histories of Scottish Steve Clarke, Spanish Unai Emery and Bruno Lage for fascinating insights into their achievements in football.