Croatian football coach Kristijan Jakić made lighthearted remarks about defender Joško Gvardiol during his first press conference following the team’s arrival in the United States. Jakić playfully suggested Gvardiol is an amateur when it comes to solving crossword puzzles, noting he initiates them but rarely finishes. The comments were made during a media event intended to preview the team’s upcoming activities in the US. Details surrounding the team’s training schedule and competitive plans were not immediately disclosed beyond the press conference itself. The exchange appeared intended as a friendly jab and did not relate to Gvardiol’s performance on the field. Jakić’s first address to the American media signals the start of the Croatian national team’s preparations while abroad.