Croatia manager Zlatko Dalic has praised the UAE for sending support to his homeland as its capital battles both the aftermath of a strong earthquake and the coronavirus.
Zagreb is still coming to terms with the 5.3-magnitude earthquake and subsequent tremors that struck early on Sunday, causing widespread damage. Its epicentre was 6.5 kilometres north of the city.
Prime Minister Andrej Plenkovic labelled it the biggest earthquake to hit Zagreb, which remains on partial lockdown because of the coronavirus crisis, in 140 years.
The UAE is one of a number of countries to have offered aid, with Dalic taking to social media on Monday to offer his thanks.
The Croat managed Al Ain for almost three years from March 2014, winning a President’s Cup and the 2014/15 Arabian Gulf League. He also led the club to a runner-up finish in the 2016 Asian Champions League.
Two years ago, Dalic memorably guided Croatia to a first World Cup final, where they were defeated 4-2 by France.
Speaking on Monday via his official Twitter account, the former Al Ain manager said: “UAE government has sent 11,5 tonnes of medical equipment to Croatia. I give you thanks in the name of Croatian people.”
UAE Government has sent 11,5 tonnes of medical equipment to Croatia. I give you thanks in the name of Croatian people. 🇦🇪🇭🇷
— Zlatko Dalić (@DalicZlatko) March 23, 2020
