Croatian U-17 Coach Sacked for Supporting Betis over Dinamo Zagreb

The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has made the decision to dismiss Robert Jarni, the national Under-17 coach, following his public declaration of support for Real Betis over Dinamo Zagreb in an upcoming Europa Conference League fixture. Jarni, a former Croatian international known for his involvement in the nation’s successful World Cup campaign in 1998, expressed his desire for Betis to triumph over Dinamo Zagreb.

Jarni’s statements were deemed inappropriate by the HNS executive committee, leading to his dismissal. The decision came after Jarni openly voiced his allegiance to Betis, citing his personal history with the club where he made 99 appearances during his playing career. Additionally, Jarni’s roots with Hadjuk Split, Dinamo Zagreb’s domestic rivals, further complicated the situation.

The HNS clarified its stance on coaches associated with the federation openly supporting foreign clubs against Croatian teams. The federation emphasized the importance of unity within the Croatian football community and expressed that such support for non-Croatian teams is considered unacceptable for Croatian national team coaches.

Notably, Dinamo Zagreb striker and Croatian international Bruno Petkovic addressed Jarni’s comments, labeling them as inappropriate. Petkovic highlighted the significance of national pride and criticized Jarni for supporting a non-Croatian team over Dinamo Zagreb in an important European fixture.

In the first leg of the Europa Conference League tie between Betis and Dinamo Zagreb, the Croatian side emerged victorious with a 1-0 win, courtesy of a goal by Bruno Petkovic from the penalty spot in the 76th minute. The outcome of the match further fueled the debate around Jarni’s statements and their impact on Croatian football.