Drago Vabec

Dragutin Vabec, most commonly known as Drago Vabec, is a Croatian former professional footballer who played for GNK [Dinamo Zagreb|Dinamo Zagreb], Stade Brestois and Toronto Metros-Croatia. He is considered one of the best players in Dinamo Zagreb history and the best player in Stade Brestois history. He left Brest in 1983. At international level, he represented the Yugoslavia national football team|SFR Yugoslavia national team].
His family originates from Čakovec, Međimurje County, and he spent most of his time there.

Playing career

Vabec was born in Zagreb, SFR Yugoslavia.
He made his debut for Yugoslavia in a September 1973 friendly match against Hungary and earned a total of seven caps, scoring one goal. His final international was an April 1976 UEFA [Euro 1976 qualifying|European Championship qualification] match against Wales. While playing for Yugoslavia during a match against Sweden on 10 October 1975 he scored a fantastic goal, which was for years screened at the beginning of the sports program.

Style of play

Although Vabec played mostly as a left winger, he was an excellent right winger too and could also play at a high level as a midfielder or a defender. The football experts deem him the most versatile player in Dinamo's history. Vabec was described as a highly intelligent player, with superb technique and passing skills, and equally adept with both feet.

Managerial career

In October 2006, he was appointed head coach at relegation-threatened Croatian second division side NK Čakovec. He remained at the position until the end of the season, but failed to save the club from relegation.