Definition
Damir Krznar is a Croatian former professional footballer and football manager, known for his roles as an assistant and head coach with several clubs in Croatia, most prominently Dinamo Zagreb.
Overview
Born on 14 March 1972 in Bjelovar (then part of SR Croatia, SFR Yugoslavia), Krznar began his playing career as a midfielder. After retiring from playing, he transitioned into coaching, serving primarily as an assistant manager before being appointed head coach of Dinamo Zagreb in August 2023. His tenure at Dinamo included a brief spell as caretaker manager following the dismissal of Zoran Mamić in 2022. Krznar’s managerial career has been associated with a focus on tactical discipline and the development of young Croatian talent.
Etymology/Origin
- Damir – a common South Slavic male given name derived from the Slavic root da (“to give”) and the element mir (“peace”), meaning “giver of peace.”
- Krznar – a Croatian surname likely derived from the word krzno (“fur”) with the suffix -ar indicating a profession or association; it may historically refer to someone involved in the fur trade or fur processing.
Characteristics
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Playing Position | Midfielder |
| Playing Career | • Early years with NK Bjelovar (youth). • Senior spells at NK Varteks, NK Osijek, and other Croatian clubs. • Retired from professional play in the early 2000s. |
| Coaching Career | • Assistant coach at Dinamo Zagreb under Zoran Mamić (2020–2022). • Served as caretaker manager for Dinamo Zagreb in 2022 after Mamić’s departure. • Appointed head coach of Dinamo Zagreb in August 2023. • Dismissed from the head‑coach position in October 2023 after a series of poor results. • Known for emphasizing disciplined defensive structures and promoting academy players. |
| Notable Achievements | • Part of Dinamo Zagreb’s coaching staff during league title campaigns (as assistant). • Guided Dinamo Zagreb to a Croatian Cup victory as caretaker (accurate information is not confirmed). |
| Current Status | As of early 2024, Krznar is not attached to a senior managerial position; further professional engagements have not been publicly announced. |
Related Topics
- Dinamo Zagreb – Prominent Croatian football club where Krznar served as assistant, caretaker, and head coach.
- Croatian Football League (Prva HNL) – The top tier of football in Croatia, in which Krznar has coached.
- Croatian Football Federation – Governing body overseeing the sport in Croatia.
- Zoran Mamić – Former Dinamo Zagreb manager whose dismissal led to Krznar’s caretaker appointment.
Note: All information presented is based on publicly available records up to 2024. Where specific details could not be confirmed from reliable sources, the entry notes the uncertainty.