Former Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has made a quick return to international football after being appointed head coach of the United Arab Emirates national team. The 59-year-old has agreed to lead the Gulf nation into a new phase, only a month after bringing his nine-year spell with Croatia to an end following their World Cup exit.

Dalic takes on Gulf challenge

Dalic has formally returned to international management after striking a deal to become the new head coach of the United Arab Emirates national team. The 59-year-old coach stepped down from his position with Croatia last month after their 2-1 defeat to Portugal in the World Cup round of 32. The appointment also marks a return to the UAE for Dalic, nine years after his time with Al Ain, where he guided the club to the UAE Pro League title in 2015.

UAEFA confirms Croatian appointment

The UAE Football Association (UAEFA) issued an official announcement welcoming the vastly experienced manager, who took charge of 111 international matches during his time with Croatia.

In an official statement, the UAEFA said: "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."

Decorated manager looks for redemption

The newly appointed coach arrives with an outstanding record in international football, having registered 62 wins from 111 matches, the highest total by any manager in Croatia's history since independence in 1990. During his tenure, Croatia reached the 2018 World Cup final, finished third at Qatar 2022, and ended the 2022-23 UEFA Nations League as runners-up. The experienced tactician succeeds Cosmin Olaroiu and will aim to bring stability and a winning mindset to the Gulf nation's squad.

Asian Cup campaign ahead

Dalic now has several months to put his squad together and implement his tactical ideas before his official first match in charge. His opening assignment will come in January when the UAE face Vietnam in their first game of the AFC Asian Cup in Saudi Arabia. The tournament will offer Dalic an important opportunity to show his credentials in Asian football while responding to the heightened expectations of UAE supporters.