Slaven Bilić returns as Croatia coach, international media recall past England triumphs
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
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- Slaven Bilić has officially returned as the head coach of the Croatian national football team after more than 14 years.
- Bilić previously led Croatia for 65 matches between 2006 and 2012, achieving 42 wins, 15 draws, and 8 losses.
- International media, including The Guardian and Goal, have noted Bilić's return, recalling his past successes, particularly against England, and his impact on players like Luka Modrić.
Slaven Bilić is back at the helm of the Croatian national football team, marking his return to the managerial role after more than 14 years. The experienced coach, aged 57, officially takes charge of the Vatreni, a position he previously held for 65 matches between 2006 and 2012. During his first tenure, Bilić guided Croatia to 42 victories, 15 draws, and 8 defeats.
They say you should never go back, but Bilić seems like a good choice for Croatia.
His return has garnered attention from international media. English outlets, in particular, remember Bilić for Croatia's success against England during the qualifiers for the 2008 European Championship. Croatia secured two victories over England under Bilić's leadership, famously preventing England from qualifying for the tournament. The Guardian recalled Bilić's confident assertion after a 3-2 win at Wembley, where he reportedly stated, "I have Modrić," highlighting the pivotal role of the star player.
He laughed at us and said: 'I have Modrić'. He really had him.
Spanish publication AS has focused on Luka Modrić, whose future with the national team remains uncertain. Bilić expressed his desire for Modrić to continue playing for Croatia. German outlet Bild referred to Bilić as a "former Bundesliga star" returning to the Croatian bench after 14 years, acknowledging the successful period under his predecessor, Zlatko Dalić.
Croatia confirms Slaven Bilić's return: Former West Ham coach ends two-year break.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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