Slaven Bilić emerges as frontrunner to coach Croatian national football team

The Croatian Football Federation is reportedly considering Slaven Bilić as the most likely successor to Zlatko Dalić as the national team's head coach. Sources close to the federation suggest Bilić is in the strongest position to take over the role he previously held for six years.

While Bilić is considered the frontrunner, other prominent Croatian football figures are also being discussed as potential candidates. Ivica Olić and Nenad Bjelica are named as possibilities, with Olić having served as Dalić's assistant. The field of potential successors remains open, with these names being the most frequently mentioned in discussions following Dalić's impending departure.

“

I didn't even know if I would go to the World Cup, let alone play, because I had big problems. Of course, the victory over Germany is my favorite, but that first one, with Jamaica, is especially dear to me because I wasn't supposed to go to the World Cup at all considering I had a fractured hip.

Bilić boasts a significant coaching history with the national team. He managed the squad from 2006, guiding them through a challenging qualification campaign to reach the Euro 2008 tournament, where they were controversially eliminated in the quarterfinals by Turkey. His tenure also included a successful qualification for the 2010 World Cup.

Beyond his national team experience, Bilić had a notable playing career, earning 44 caps for Croatia and winning bronze at the 1998 World Cup despite playing with a fractured hip. His coaching career began at Hajduk Split, followed by a stint with the U21 national team before taking the senior team reins. His previous experience and familiarity with the team make him a strong contender for the vacant position.

“

My 'stocks' are best and according to numerous sources close to the top of our federation, Bilić could soon become the coach, or return to the position he held for six years.