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Zlatko KranjcarCroatian football coach
Date of Birth: 15.11.1956
Country:  Croatia |
Content:
Zlatko Kranjčar
Early Life and Playing CareerZlatko Kranjčar was born in Zagreb, Yugoslavia (now Croatia) on November 15, 1956. As a young footballer, he rose through the ranks of Dinamo Zagreb before making his debut for the senior team in 1973. With Dinamo, he won the Yugoslav Championship in 1981-82 and the Yugoslav Cup in 1979-80 and 1982-83. Kranjčar also enjoyed a successful spell with Rapid Vienna, claiming two Austrian Championships (1986-87, 1987-88) and three Austrian Cups (1983-84, 1984-85, 1986-87).
Transition to Coaching
After retiring as a player, Kranjčar moved into coaching. He led Dinamo Zagreb to two Croatian Championships (1995-96, 1997-98) and two Croatian Cups (1995-96, 1997-98). In 2002, he guided NK Zagreb to a Croatian Championship title, nurturing young talent like Ivica Olić.
Croatian National Team
From 2004 to 2006, Kranjčar managed the Croatian national team. Under his stewardship, Croatia qualified for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany. However, the team failed to progress beyond the group stage, prompting Kranjčar's resignation. Notably, he was responsible for bringing Luka Modrić into the national team.
Black Mountain National Team
In 2010, Kranjčar took charge of the Montenegro national team. After a promising start in Euro 2012 qualifying, he was dismissed on September 8, 2011. The Montenegro Football Federation president, Dejan Savićević, cited alcohol-related issues as the reason for his removal. Kranjčar disputed these allegations.
Legacy
Among Kranjčar's most notable achievements as a player were his contributions to Dinamo Zagreb and Rapid Vienna. As a coach, he led Dinamo Zagreb and NK Zagreb to Croatian Championship titles. His tenure with the Croatian national team saw the emergence of Luka Modrić. Kranjčar's son, Niko, is also a professional footballer.
