Jurčić returns for third stint at Dinamo helm

Krunoslav Jurčić has returned for a third spell in charge of GNK Dinamo Zagreb following Ante Čačić's departure in the wake of Sunday's 1-0 defeat at the hands of city rivals NK Zagreb.

Jurčić guided Dinamo to a Croatian double in 2008/09 and sealed another title the following season. After a short stint at NK Lokomotiva, the 43-year-old returned to Dinamo in May 2011 and led them to the UEFA Champions League group stage, where six defeats spelled the end of his second coming. 

"I'm glad to be back again – while I was away I had a feeling I didn't finish what I started," he said. "I am honoured to have a chance to be Dinamo Zagreb coach for the third time, to finish what I started. I could never refuse a call from Dinamo."

Jurčić leaves his role as assistant of the Croatian national team with the blessing of head coach Igor Štimac. "I can only thank Krunoslav for his dedication and loyalty," he said. "I wish him all the best for the future." Meanwhile, Čačić' is replaced after just under a year at the helm, despite yielding a league and cup double last term.

Dinamo are rooted to the bottom of Group A and will be eliminated from European competition following the conclusion of their UEFA Champions League campaign at home to FC Dynamo Kyiv on 4 December.