Croatia have turned back to the past, reappointing former defender Slaven Bilic as the manager of their men’s national team. He replaces Zlatko Dalic, who stepped down after nearly nine years in charge following Croatia’s World Cup last-32 defeat against Portugal.
Bilic, whose first spell from 2006 to 2012 yielded 42 wins, 15 draws and eight defeats from 65 matches, said he brings “the same motivation and desire” as before but now as a “more mature and experienced coach”. He added: “I have the complete confidence in our players, and it is my responsibility to bring energy, ambition and determination to ensure that Croatia remains among football’s elite.”
“Croatia reappoint Slaven Bilic as manager, replacing Zlatko Dalic after World Cup exit.”
The 56-year-old won 44 caps for his country and played in the Croatia team beaten by eventual winners France in the 1998 World Cup semi-finals. His managerial career has taken in clubs including West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion and Watford in England, and most recently Saudi Arabia’s Al-Fateh during the 2023-2024 season.
Bilic’s reappointment marks a return to familiar territory, with the federation betting on his experience to restore Croatia’s standing after a disappointing early World Cup exit.