Croatia confirms Slaven Bilić's return as national team coach

The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has announced the return of Slaven Bilić as the head coach of the national team, marking his second spell in charge. The decision was unanimously approved by the HNS Executive Committee following a proposal by President Marijan Kustić.

Bilić previously managed the Croatian national team from 2006 to 2012, during which time he achieved a notable 42 wins in 65 matches, boasting the highest win percentage in the team's history. His tenure included strong performances in the UEFA European Championships and significant qualifying victories, particularly against England.

This appointment comes after Croatia's recent exit from the 2026 World Cup, where they were defeated by Portugal in the Round of 16. The federation seeks to maintain the team's competitiveness, a standard set over the past decade which saw Croatia reach the World Cup final in 2018 and secure third place in 2022, along with a UEFA Nations League runner-up finish in 2023 under the previous coach, Zlatko Dalić.

Bilić brings a wealth of experience from his coaching career, which has spanned multiple countries and leagues. After his initial stint with Croatia, he managed Lokomotiv Moscow, Besiktas in Turkey, and had a significant period in the English Premier League with West Ham United. He later coached Al-Ittihad in Saudi Arabia, West Bromwich Albion (leading them to promotion), Beijing Guoan in China, Watford, and most recently Al-Fateh in Saudi Arabia until 2024. After a two-year break from coaching, Bilić returns to lead the Croatian squad.