The decision follows Dinamo's 3–1 comeback victory over Varaždin, secured through goals from Luka Stojković, Dion Drena Beljo and Miha Zajc. That success came only three days after the Zagreb club stunned Premier League side Sunderland 2–0 in the UEFA Europa League, with Stojković and Beljo again playing decisive roles. The two results have given Leko a perfect start and strengthened the argument that Dinamo already have a suitable coaching solution within their own organisation.
According to Večernji list, Boban had informed Leko that he would continue leading the first team before the Varaždin encounter. The victory therefore reinforced a decision that had reportedly already been made, rather than serving as the sole factor determining the coach's future.
Leko confirmed after the match that he had spoken with Boban and would remain in charge for the foreseeable future, although some practical details still needed to be finalised. His comments make clear that the initial two-match arrangement has been extended, but the precise duration and contractual conditions have not yet been formally established in the information made public.
Two Victories Transform Dinamo's Season
Leko inherited a difficult situation following Kovačević's departure after the unexpected defeat to Rudeš. Although the former coach had delivered domestic success, Dinamo's performances had become increasingly inconsistent, with defensive mistakes, problems in transition and disappointing European results raising concerns about the direction of the team.
The new coach had very little time to prepare for his first assignment against Sunderland. However, rather than introducing complicated tactical changes, Leko focused on restoring energy, discipline and confidence. Dinamo responded with an outstanding first-half performance in England, scoring twice through Stojković and Beljo before successfully defending their advantage to secure a memorable 2–0 victory at the Stadium of Light.
That result immediately changed the mood around the club. Players who had appeared hesitant in previous matches demonstrated greater determination, while the travelling Bad Blue Boys celebrated with the team and repeatedly chanted Leko's name after the final whistle. The victory also provided evidence that Dinamo's squad possessed the necessary quality to compete successfully against strong European opponents when performing with greater organisation and intensity.
The challenge was maintaining that improvement in domestic competition. Travelling to Varaždin less than three days after the European success presented another demanding test, particularly because Leko needed to manage fatigue and make changes to his starting lineup.
Dinamo ultimately passed that test, recovering from an early deficit to secure another important victory. The team demonstrated greater mental strength than in several previous matches, while Leko's substitutions and tactical adjustments contributed to a decisive late improvement.
The two victories have transformed the debate surrounding the coaching position. What initially appeared to be a temporary arrangement has become a serious long-term opportunity for a coach whose familiarity with Dinamo and its players may prove particularly valuable.
Stojković, Beljo and Zajc Complete Varaždin Comeback
Dinamo's victory in Varaždin was far from straightforward. The visitors controlled significant periods of possession and created several early opportunities, but the home side demonstrated attacking quality and took the lead in the 27th minute through Luka Mamić.
The goal arrived following a well-constructed move involving Tomislav Duvnjak and Ivan Canjuga, with Mamić finishing beyond goalkeeper Dominik Kotarski. The setback presented Dinamo with an immediate test of character, particularly given the team's previous difficulties responding to unexpected situations.
However, Leko's players required only three minutes to equalise. Stojković collected the ball in a promising position and struck towards goal, with his effort taking a deflection off Robert Punčec before beating goalkeeper Josip Silić. The goal restored parity and allowed Dinamo to regain control of the contest.
The Croatian champions continued searching for a second goal after the interval, with Stojković missing an excellent opportunity and Beljo repeatedly testing the home defence. Varaždin remained competitive, however, and the match appeared capable of ending in a draw until a decisive incident in the final quarter.
In the 73rd minute, Beljo was brought down inside the penalty area by Punčec. Referee Mateo Erceg initially allowed play to continue, but a lengthy VAR review resulted in a penalty for Dinamo and a second yellow card for the Varaždin defender.
Beljo eventually converted the spot kick in the 78th minute, giving Dinamo a 2–1 advantage against ten opponents. The striker's composure provided another important contribution after his decisive goal against Sunderland, further strengthening his position as one of the team's most influential players.
The visitors completed the victory in the 89th minute when substitute Miha Zajc finished an excellent attacking combination involving Beljo and Lukas Kačavenda. His precise effort from the edge of the penalty area made it 3–1 and effectively settled the contest.
Varaždin's difficulties continued during stoppage time when Emmanuel Uchegbu received a straight red card for striking Bruno Goda, leaving the hosts with nine players.
The final score gave Dinamo three points and confirmed Leko's second consecutive victory as first-team coach. More importantly, the match demonstrated that the improvements shown in England could be reproduced under different circumstances, including a demanding domestic encounter in which the team had to recover from behind.
Boban Backs Leko Despite Interest in Spanish Coaches
The decision to retain Leko represents a significant development in Dinamo's managerial search, which had previously focused on several candidates with experience in Spanish football. Among those linked with the position were Óscar García, the former Barcelona player and Red Bull Salzburg coach, and Pol Planas, a highly regarded youth coach from Barcelona's academy.
Planas had emerged as a particularly interesting option because of his relationship with Dinamo's football development director Albert Capellas. The two share a background in Barcelona's development system, and reports suggested that Capellas viewed the younger coach as someone capable of introducing a clearly defined playing philosophy while strengthening the connection between Dinamo's academy and first team.
However, Leko's immediate success has changed the circumstances. According to Večernji list, the victory against Sunderland played a decisive role in convincing Boban that the Croatian coach deserved the opportunity to continue. The president reportedly communicated his decision before the Varaždin match, giving Leko additional confidence ahead of his second assignment.
The appointment also offers practical advantages. Leko already understands Dinamo's organisation, expectations and playing personnel, having progressed through the club's youth and reserve-team structure. Unlike an external appointment, he does not require an extended adaptation period to become familiar with the environment at Maksimir.
His previous experience as a Dinamo player further strengthens that connection. During a successful playing career, Leko represented the Zagreb club in two separate spells and also played for Dynamo Kyiv and Monaco. He earned 59 appearances for Croatia, participating in major international tournaments before moving into coaching.
His progression from the academy to the reserve team and finally the first-team bench illustrates a development pathway that could become increasingly important for Dinamo. Promoting from within provides continuity and demonstrates that coaching opportunities can emerge through successful work at different levels of the club.
Nevertheless, the distinction between remaining in charge indefinitely and receiving a formally announced long-term contract remains important. While Leko has confirmed that he will continue, reports differ on whether his arrangement already extends to the end of the season.
Barcelona Coach Pol Planas Creates Unexpected Twist
Despite Leko's confirmation, developments in Spain have introduced uncertainty about the background to Dinamo's managerial decision. Catalan journalist Jaume Marcet, who covers Barcelona's youth academy for Sport, published a farewell message to Pol Planas after the 35-year-old coach's final match with Barcelona's Under-19 team.
Planas concluded his involvement with the youth side following a 3–1 victory away to Sant Andreu. Marcet praised his contribution to Barcelona's academy and wished him success in Zagreb, suggesting that a move to the Croatian capital had been anticipated.
The timing was particularly striking because the message appeared after Leko had publicly confirmed his continuation as Dinamo's head coach. Earlier reports in the Spanish media had suggested that Planas was preparing to leave Barcelona for Dinamo, potentially as the club's new first-team manager.
However, the situation appears to have changed following Leko's two victories. Večernji list reports that the Croatian coach will remain in charge and that the previously discussed appointment of Planas is no longer expected to proceed as originally planned.
The Spanish journalist's farewell message therefore raises an unresolved question: whether Planas had already made arrangements to leave Barcelona before Dinamo changed its coaching plans, or whether another role in Zagreb could still be under consideration.
There has been no official confirmation that Planas will join Dinamo in any capacity. His departure from Barcelona's youth team and the journalist's reference to Zagreb should not be treated as proof of an appointment.
The episode nevertheless illustrates how quickly the managerial situation has evolved. Only days earlier, Dinamo appeared to be preparing for the arrival of a Spanish coach. Following two victories under Leko, the club now seems determined to continue with the man who was initially expected to provide only temporary stability.
Leko's Biggest Achievement May Be Restoring Team Spirit
Beyond the results, one of the most encouraging aspects of Leko's opening matches has been the visible improvement in Dinamo's collective attitude. Players who had struggled for confidence during the final weeks of Kovačević's tenure have shown renewed determination, while the team appear more willing to compete aggressively and support one another during difficult moments.
An analysis published by Sportske novosti highlights the importance of Leko's communication and his ability to motivate the squad. Rather than attempting to transform the team's entire tactical identity immediately, the new coach has focused on establishing clear expectations and restoring confidence.
That approach has produced encouraging performances from several important players. Stojković has continued his excellent recent form, providing goals, creativity and attacking energy. Beljo has remained a decisive presence in the forward line, while captain Josip Mišić has played a central role in maintaining the team's organisation and communication.
Leko has also demonstrated an ability to use his squad effectively. Against Varaždin, he made five changes to the starting lineup compared with the Sunderland match, recognising the physical demands of two away fixtures in less than three days. His substitutes subsequently made important contributions, with Zajc scoring the third goal and Kačavenda helping create the opportunity.
The coach's composure during decisive moments has also attracted attention. After Beljo converted the penalty against Varaždin, Leko remained focused on ensuring that his players maintained concentration rather than becoming distracted by celebrations.
His approach to public communication has been another positive development. Sportske novosti noted his willingness to explain decisions, discuss performances directly and maintain a relaxed relationship with journalists. Those qualities may help rebuild confidence not only within the dressing room but also among supporters and the wider football community.
However, the early improvement should be viewed in context. Two victories represent an excellent beginning, but maintaining that standard across a demanding domestic and European schedule will be a substantially greater challenge.
Dinamo Remain Four Points Behind Hajduk
The victory over Varaždin also carried considerable importance in the Croatian championship race. Dinamo remain second in the SuperSport HNL standings, four points behind leaders Hajduk Split, although the Zagreb club have played one match fewer.
Hajduk maintained their advantage with a narrow 1–0 away victory over Osijek, secured through a late goal, ensuring that both title contenders entered the international break with positive results.
The situation leaves Dinamo with an opportunity to close the gap, but there is little margin for further inconsistency. Their earlier defeats have already complicated the title race, making it essential that Leko builds on the momentum created by the wins against Sunderland and Varaždin.
Dinamo will return to league action at home against Istra 1961 following the international break. The two-week interval provides Leko with an important opportunity to work on tactical organisation, assess the condition of his players and develop a more consistent approach.
The break will also allow Dinamo's management to clarify the coaching arrangements and determine whether any further changes to the technical staff are necessary.
European ambitions remain equally important. The victory over Sunderland strengthened Dinamo's position in the Europa League, but the club must continue collecting points to improve its chances of reaching the knockout stages.
For Leko, balancing those two competitions will be the next major test. His opening matches have demonstrated the squad's potential, but maintaining the required intensity over several months will demand effective rotation, tactical flexibility and continued strong performances from key players.
A New Beginning at Maksimir
Dinamo's decision to continue with Leko represents an important moment for the club's sporting direction. What began as a short-term solution following another managerial departure has developed into an opportunity for a coach who understands the organisation and has already established a positive relationship with the players.
His appointment also highlights the importance of timing in football. Had Dinamo failed to win against Sunderland or Varaždin, the club might have moved forward with its reported plans to appoint a Spanish coach. Instead, two impressive results have changed the assessment of what the team needs most.
For Boban, retaining Leko offers the possibility of stability without introducing another unfamiliar figure into an already unsettled environment. For the players, it provides an opportunity to continue working with a coach under whom they have immediately demonstrated greater confidence and determination.
Nevertheless, important questions remain. The club must establish the precise contractual arrangements, clarify the situation surrounding Pol Planas and ensure that the improved performances continue beyond the initial emotional response to a managerial change.
The coming weeks will therefore determine whether Leko's impressive start represents a temporary revival or the beginning of a more sustained improvement at Maksimir.
Jerko Leko has transformed his position at Dinamo Zagreb in remarkably little time. Victories against Sunderland and Varaždin have earned him the confidence of the club's leadership and strong support from the dressing room, while his direct communication and calm authority have helped restore a positive atmosphere. Although the uncertainty surrounding Pol Planas adds an intriguing dimension to the story, Dinamo's immediate direction is clear: Leko will remain in charge, with the challenge now shifting from earning the opportunity to proving that he can deliver long-term success.
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