Slaven Bilic returns to coach Croatia, will try to keep Luka Modric in the national team

The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has appointed Slaven Bilic as the new head coach of the national team, replacing Zlatko Dalic. Bilic, who previously managed Croatia from 2006 to 2012, expressed his immense happiness and ambitious goals for his second stint. He acknowledged the challenges ahead but remains optimistic, citing the team's quality and Dalic's success as proof that "best dreams are possible."

One of Bilic's immediate priorities is to speak with captain Luka Modric, whose future with the national team is uncertain. Bilic emphasized Modric's invaluable contribution, stating, "he is much more than the best player for the national team." The decision on whether Modric will continue playing rests solely with the legendary midfielder.

Bilic's return comes after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following Croatia's elimination from the World Cup. Dalic led the team to significant achievements, including the 2018 World Cup final and a third-place finish in 2022. Bilic, a former national team defender himself, aims to build on this legacy, drawing inspiration from the team's performance in the recent World Cup, which he controversially described as a "robbery" after a late loss.

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un robo