After narrowly missing out on a spot in the 2026 World Cup, the United Arab Emirates has turned to Zlatko Dalic to breathe new life into their international football program. Dalic, a highly respected coach with deep ties to the region from his previous tenure at Al Ain, brings an impressive pedigree to the role. Most notably, he is the mastermind who led Croatia to a historic World Cup final appearance in 2018 and a third-place finish in 2022. By prioritizing midfield control and tactical discipline—a philosophy that flourished under the guidance of Luka Modric—Dalic has proven he can elevate smaller nations onto the global stage.

Dalic has made it clear that his return to the UAE is driven by project ambition rather than financial gain, viewing the nation as a second home where he hopes to achieve something extraordinary. His immediate focus will be on blending youth with experience as he prepares for the upcoming Arabian Gulf Cup and the 2027 AFC Asian Cup. While the transition from European to Asian football presents a unique set of challenges, the UAE Football Association is banking on his meticulous planning to finally bridge the gap between the nation’s aspirations and a return to the World Cup for the first time since 1990.