Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second stint, replacing Zlatko Dalic after the nation’s World Cup exit.
Croatia have turned back to a familiar face to rebuild their national team. Slaven Bilic returns as head coach after a 14-year absence.
Dalic Steps Down After Group Stage Exit
Zlatko Dalic resigned last week following Croatia’s exit at the World Cup. Croatia finished second in Group L, one point behind England. Portugal ended their tournament with a 2-1 win in the last 32. Dalic’s near nine-year reign included a runner-up finish at the 2018 World Cup. He also led Croatia to the 2022 semi-finals and Euro 2020’s last 16. The Croatian Football Federation confirmed his departure came after the World Cup concluded.
Bilic Unanimously Appointed By The Federation
The Croatian Football Federation’s Executive Committee voted unanimously to appoint Bilic. President Marijan Kustic proposed Bilic’s name before the committee’s decision. Kustic praised Bilic’s coaching experience while acknowledging the difficult transition ahead. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, recording 42 wins from 65 matches.
His side reached the Euro 2008 quarter-finals before a penalty defeat to Turkey. Bilic also managed West Ham United (3.26), West Brom (41.14) and Watford (51.18) in England. His most recent post came at Saudi Arabia’s Al-Fateh during the 2023-2024 season.
Bilic Reflects On His Homecoming
Bilic described the appointment as the greatest honour for any Croatian coach. He thanked Kustic and the federation for their trust in his return. Bilic acknowledged the weight of expectation built during Dalic’s near-decade in charge. He called himself a more mature and experienced coach than in 2006.
Bilic still carries the same desire to see Croatia stay powerful and bold. He made 44 appearances for Croatia as a defender during his playing days. Bilic also featured at Euro 96 and the 1998 World Cup for his country.
Modric’s Future Remains An Open Question
Bilic named the 2028 European Championship as his primary target for Croatia. He was also asked directly about captain Luka Modric’s international future. Modric turns 41 in September and has faced retirement questions since 2018. Bilic said the decision on Modric’s future belongs to the player himself.
He added that Modric means far more to Croatia than his performances alone. He said he would like Modric to continue representing the national team. The next qualification cycle will test Croatia’s depth as senior stars near retirement.
