Zlatko Dalić becomes first Croatian to receive Italy’s Gianni Brera Award

MILAN, 4 February 2019 – Zlatko Dalić has become the first Croatian to receive Italy’s Gianni Brera Award. 

The coach, who led Croatia to silver at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, was presented with the Gianni Brera Award at a ceremony at the prestigious Teatro dal Verme theatre in Milan on Monday night. 

The award is named in honour of the late Gianni Brera, who was one of the most respected Italian sports journalist of his time. The award was set up in Brera’s memory and acknowledges outstanding sporting achievements. 

Dalić won the award for his efforts in 2018, namely leading Croatia to the World Cup final in Russia. 

“I have to thank my players. We are a small, but proud nation and receiving this award is important not only for me but for all the players in Croatia. My dream is to coach here in Italy,” said Dalić after receiving the award from Inter Milan director Giuseppe Marotta. 

“Dalić deserves this award. He became coach of Croatia at a difficult time and he showed that he is one of the best coaches in the world,” said Marotta. 

Dalic: “Sogno di allenare in Italia. Sapevo che la Croazia avrebbe fatto un gran Mondiale” https://t.co/vPBCLJvm9M

— FcInterNews.it (@FcInterNewsit) February 4, 2019

The award for greatest achievements of the year and life achievements was decided after votes from journalists, coaches and public figures.   

Dalić is the first Croatian to receive the award which has been held since 2001 and is the first person outside of Italy to win a Gianni Brera Award this year.