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Croatia's Goulart Not Included in Squad for World Cup Qualifiers
Updated:2026-01-03 08:30 Views:99**Croatia's Shock as Goulart is Snubbed for World Cup Qualifiers**
Croatia's football fans are in shock as the national team's star player, Robert Goulart, has been shockingly excluded from the squad for the upcoming World Cup qualifiers. The omission of the 29-year-old midfielder, who has been a cornerstone of the team since his debut in 2013, has left many questioning the coach's decision-making. Goulart, known for his exceptional playmaking skills and leadership on the field, has been instrumental in Croatia's recent successes, including their third-place finish at the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
The decision to leave Goulart out of the squad comes as a surprise, especially given his impressive form in the recent qualifiers. Goulart has been a key asset in Croatia's midfield, often orchestrating attacks and providing crucial assists. His presence would have been invaluable, especially in a tough group that includes France, Turkey, and Estonia. Without him, Croatia will need to rely heavily on other players, such as Manchester United's Marcelo Brozovic and Real Madrid's Luka Modric, to maintain their attacking prowess.
Coach Zlatko Dalic has explained the decision by stating that the team needs to "experiment with younger players and give them a chance to shine." However, many fans and analysts are skeptical about the move, arguing that Goulart's experience and expertise are irreplaceable at this stage. The omission could have significant implications for Croatia's performance in the qualifiers, as Goulart's ability to control the game and create chances is unique.
The news has sparked a wave of controversy on social media, with many fans expressing their disappointment and frustration. Some have even called for a boycott of the qualifiers, while others are hopeful that the team can adapt and succeed without their main playmaker. Regardless of the outcome, one thing is certain: Goulart's absence will leave a huge gap in Croatia's midfield.
For now, the focus will be on the remaining players as they prepare for the qualifiers. Croatia's next game is against France on October 14, and the team will need to show resilience and unity to overcome the loss of Goulart. Whether this decision is a tactical masterstroke or a costly mistake remains to be seen. One thing is for sure: the world will be watching to see how Croatia responds to this shock decision.
