The renowned football figure, Robert Jarni, has officially parted ways with his role as the coach of the U17 national team. He revealed in an interview with Večernji list that he would essentially be rooting for Betis when they face off against Dinamo in the forthcoming knockout phase of the conference league.
Jarni expressed his confidence in Betis, describing them as a formidable team and a challenging competitor. “We hold them in high regard, a sentiment which will persist until we step onto the field. You can be sure that much will be expected from us too. We find ourselves compelled to play this match with a degree of pressure, in a situation that isn’t exactly rosy. Nevertheless, we aspire to demonstrate our prowess,” he proclaimed.
His stance, however, was contradicted by Bruno Petković who took umbrage at Jarni’s intention to cheer for Betis. He expressed his dismay at Jarni’s lack of support for the Croatian team, labelling him a clown.
“Can it be true that he actually said that? If indeed he did, and if he genuinely meant it, then he is nothing but a clown! It is a disgrace for individuals who represent the Croatian state not to stand behind the Croatian club. They are simply clowns. Feel free to quote me on this! Any person who cheers against a Croatian club in Europe, particularly if they are Croatian themselves, is a clown,” Petković vehemently stated.
Following the controversy, the Croatian Football Federation (HNS) decided to relieve Jarni of his duties as the coach of the U17 national team on the day of the match.
The HNS made clear their stance on the issue, asserting that higher standards are indeed expected from all Croatian coaches. The association deem it unacceptable and inappropriate for a person in charge of a Croatian national team to openly support any Croatian club in a European competition. “Promoting unity within the Croatian football family is a prerequisite without which no Croatian national team can be successfully managed,” the association declared.
