Tottenham’s Europa League last 16 opponents Dinamo Zagreb have seen their preparations for their second leg tie thrown into chaos following the resignation of their manager who has been handed a jail sentence.
Zoran Mamic has been convicted and sentenced to nearly five years in prison by the Croatian supreme court after being found guilty of fraud alongside his brother and former Dinamo executive director Zdravko.
"The Supreme Court has confirmed the Osijek Municipal Court's verdict sentencing Zdravko Mamic to six and a half years of imprisonment for the embezzlement of 116 million kuna ($18.26 million) from Dinamo football club," said a statement published by HRT.
"Zoran Mamic's sentence has been reduced to four years and eight months from four years and 11 months."
Following the verdict, Mamic released a statement via the Dinamo website confirming his exit:
“Although I do not feel guilty, as I announced earlier, if the verdict is final, I accept it as such and resign from the position of head coach and sports director of GNK Dinamo.
“I wish the club a lot of luck and sporting success in its future work.”
Dinamo, who trail Spurs 2-0 from the first leg in London, will instead be managed by former player Damir Krznar.
A Harry Kane brace at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium gave Spurs the advantage ahead of the trip to Croatia for the return match.
