Krunoslav Jurcic emerges as leading candidate for Dinamo Zagreb job

Krunoslav Jurcic has become the leading contender to replace Mario Kovacevic as Dinamo Zagreb manager if the club decides to make a change, according to a report in Croatia.

Pressure on Kovacevic has increased after Dinamo suffered a 4-2 defeat by Dutch side Nijmegen, renewing questions over his position despite club president Zvonimir Boban having no intention of making a rushed decision over the coaching staff.

The Croatian website Nogomet Iza Kulisa reports that Jurcic is currently the strongest option under consideration should Kovacevic leave. The former Pyramids FC manager has been without a club since departing the Egyptian side in June.

Jurcic left Pyramids FC after a successful spell in charge, during which he guided the team to the CAF Champions League title.

His previous experience with Dinamo Zagreb is considered one of the main factors that could strengthen his chances of returning. Jurcic has managed the Croatian club on three separate occasions, most recently in 2013.

He also has a long-standing relationship with Boban. The pair played together for Croatia and won a bronze medal at the 1998 World Cup in France. That connection could ensure Jurcic remains among the names considered by Boban as he assesses the options available to him.

A recent poll conducted among readers of Nogomet Iza Kulisa also gave Jurcic the highest number of votes when supporters were asked which manager they wanted to see replace Kovacevic. The result indicated there is backing among the club’s fans for his return.

However, there is no confirmed information that Boban and Jurcic have held talks about the managerial position. There is also no evidence that the Croatian coach is rejecting other offers while waiting to see how the situation at Dinamo Zagreb develops.

Boban continues to support Kovacevic and does not want to make an immediate change in the dugout. The future of the coaching staff could instead be decided during the winter break.

Jurcic is also currently unattached, having spent almost five months out of work since leaving Pyramids FC. That period has followed his CAF Champions League success and the international coaching experience he gained during his time with the club.

If Dinamo’s results do not improve and the pressure on Kovacevic continues, Jurcic’s name could become increasingly prominent in discussions over the manager’s future. For now, though, there is no confirmation that an appointment is imminent, with Boban maintaining his support for the current coach while keeping potential alternatives in reserve.