Zlatko Dalic has been appointed the new head coach of the United Arab Emirates, returning to management just over a month after ending his nine-year spell in charge of Croatia.

The UAE Football Association confirmed the appointment on social media, writing: “Welcome, Zlatko Dalic. The UAE Football Association is pleased to announce the appointment of the Croatian as the new Head Coach of the UAE National Team.”

A new chapter after Croatia exit

Dalic left Croatia following their 2-1 defeat by Portugal in the round of 32 at this summer’s World Cup. It was the country’s worst World Cup campaign during his tenure, which began in 2017.

His time with Croatia was nevertheless highly successful. He guided the team to the 2018 World Cup final, where they lost 4-2 to France, and then secured third place at the 2022 tournament in Qatar. Dalic also led Croatia through two European Championship campaigns, although the team did not progress beyond the last 16, and reached the 2022-23 Nations League final before losing to Spain in a penalty shoot-out after a goalless draw.

Dalic oversaw 111 matches across all competitions as Croatia coach, winning 62. Those totals were the highest recorded by any Croatia head coach since the country became independent in 1990, while his win rate stood at 55.9 per cent.

Familiar surroundings in the UAE

The appointment marks a return to the UAE for Dalic, who previously managed Al Ain. He led the club to the domestic league title in 2015 before leaving the role because of fatigue.

Dalic succeeds Cosmin Olaroiu and is expected to begin his new tenure next January, when the UAE face Yemen in the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia.