Striker was sent home from Russia after Croatia’s first match

FIFA Worldcup 2018 Sports

Striker was sent home from Russia after Croatia’s first match

IF there’s one man in Croatia hoping his country fail to win the World Cup, it’s probably Nikola Kalinic.

The AC Milan striker was part of Croatia’s World Cup squad and was set to play a major role for his team, alongside Mario Mandzukic.

But was sent home by coach Zlatko Dalic after their first group match, a 2-0 win over Nigeria.

The reason? He refused to come on as a substitute, claiming he had a back injury and was unable to play.

After the match, Dalic revealed: “During the Nigeria encounter, Kalinic was warming up and was supposed to come on in the second half.

“However, he then stated that he wasn’t ready to come on due to a back issue.

“The same thing happened during the Brazil friendly in England, as well as before the practice session on Sunday.

“I have calmly accepted that, and since I need my players fit and ready to play, I have made this decision.”

If Kalinic was putting his ego before the team, it’s come back to haunt him.

After being sent home, Croatia went on to win their group by thumping Argentina 3-0 and overcoming Iceland 2-1.

They then beat Denmark, Russia and England to reach football’s ultimate decider.

So while his teammates are on the field against France, contesting the World Cup final for the very first time in their country’s history, Kalinic will watching on TV.

Reason enough for football fans across the globe to taken to Twitter to mock the 30-year-old.

ATTENTION:

I want you to meet Nikola Kalinic. He came to the World Cup as part of Croatia's squad. He's a talented striker. He reportedly refused to come in as a sub in the group stage win over Nigeria.

He was then sent home as a result.

Don't be like Nikola Kalinic. pic.twitter.com/cr8lT4yRRy
— Roger Gonzalez (@RGonzalezCBS) July 11, 2018