Zdravko Logarusic, the Croatian football coach infamous for his dramatic departures and financial disputes, has once again made headlines after a mysterious disappearance while managing the Eswatini national team. The latest incident adds another chapter to his eventful career, marked by controversy and unexpected vanishing acts.
The drama began in mid-November when Logarusic failed to join the team for their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Guinea-Bissau. The match, played at Mbombela Stadium in Mpumalanga, South Africa, saw the Eswatini team missing its head coach. Speculation arose that Logarusic’s absence was linked to a standoff over unpaid allowances. Allegedly, he had demanded additional payments ahead of Eswatini’s next fixture, a demand reportedly resisted by the Eswatini Football Association (EFA).
During this period, the EFA was unable to locate the coach, leading to widespread speculation about his whereabouts. He resurfaced 11 days later, casually attending matches at Mavuso Sports Centre, offering no clear explanation for his absence. While some questioned his commitment, others were amused by his unapologetic attitude, as he refrained from addressing the rumors and directed all inquiries to Sihlangu Manager Dumisani Sibandze.
Adding to the intrigue, reports surfaced that Logarusic was spotted driving an EFA-issued vehicle, despite claims that the association had withdrawn his car privileges during his absence. The situation has left fans and officials divided, with some viewing his actions as detrimental to team morale while others emphasize his proven track record.
Logarusic is no stranger to such controversies. In 2015, while coaching Kenya’s AFC Leopards, he resigned abruptly over unpaid rent, notifying the club via text before returning to Croatia. His tenure at Kenya Police FC in 2023 was less theatrical but ended without much fanfare. Known for his strong personality, Logarusic has often been at the center of disputes, many revolving around financial disagreements.
Despite the ongoing drama, the Croatian tactician’s abilities on the pitch remain acknowledged. During his absence, Eswatini, under the guidance of assistant coach Sifiso ‘Nuro’ Ntibane, managed a respectable 1-1 draw against Guinea-Bissau. While the match held no stakes, as Eswatini was already eliminated from AFCON contention, it highlighted the team’s resilience. Earlier in his tenure, Logarusic had led Eswatini to a significant win against Zimbabwe in a CHAN qualifier, a testament to his tactical acumen.
The EFA has remained largely silent on the matter, with no official statements about the coach’s future. While some officials have expressed frustration over the financial disputes, others have focused on his contributions to the team. A meeting at Sigwaca House is expected to determine the way forward, as the association grapples with the delicate balance of addressing the controversy while maintaining team cohesion.
For fans, opinions remain divided. Some argue that Logarusic’s antics overshadow his achievements, pointing to his penchant for theatrics as a recurring distraction. Others recognize his impact, particularly in achieving milestones for teams like Eswatini, and suggest that his actions stem from valid grievances over financial treatment.
The ongoing saga is characteristic of Logarusic, a figure whose career has been as much about off-field drama as on-field success. His recent request for “space” from all parties involved has done little to dispel the uncertainty, leaving the football community awaiting his next move. Whether this incident marks a turning point in his tenure with Eswatini or simply another twist in his storied career remains to be seen.
