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The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) has officially confirmed that Slaven Bilic will return as the head coach of Croatia’s senior national football team. The former West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion manager ends a two-year managerial break, taking over from Zlatko Dalic, who stepped down following the 2026 World Cup.

A new chapter begins

Acting on the recommendation of Federation President Marijan Kustic, the HNS Executive Committee unanimously approved Bilic’s appointment. This decision follows Dalic’s departure after a historic period of success on the international stage.

Bilic, a prominent figure in Croatian football history, previously managed the national team between 2006 and 2012. His return to the role follows a spell away from management, most recently working in club football. The HNS Expert Commission fully supported the move, citing Bilic’s deep familiarity with the national team’s culture and his suitability as Dalic’s successor.

Filling big shoes

Replacing Dalic is a formidable challenge, given his accomplishments that include guiding Croatia to a World Cup final and semi-final. Kustic acknowledged the significance of this transition but expressed full confidence in Bilic’s ability to lead. The Federation highlighted Bilic’s extensive coaching experience across the Premier League, the Turkish Super Lig, and other major European leagues as key factors behind his appointment.

“I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the outstanding results he delivered during his time in charge, and we fully respect his decision to conclude his tenure with this World Cup,” Kustic said. “It is not easy to follow in Zlatko’s footsteps, but we are confident that Slaven is the right person for this role. He is a celebrated former international who brings with him vast coaching and managerial experience, and I am certain he has the full support of the players, the fans, and the wider public to lead Croatia to further achievements. We warmly welcome Slaven and assure him of the Federation’s complete support. I wish him every success in his new chapter.”

Bilic on returning home

For Bilic, the chance to manage his country again was irresistible. Despite his two-year absence from the sidelines, the former West Bromwich Albion and Besiktas coach said he is fully prepared for the demands and expectations that come with leading Croatia.

“I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the trust and confidence they have shown by allowing me to lead the Croatian national team again — it is the highest honour for any Croatian coach,” Bilic said. “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable era under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes up this position must be ready for that, because we are a footballing nation that lives and breathes its national team.”

Keeping Croatia among the elite

Bilic’s immediate priority will be to ensure Croatia continue competing at the top level of world football, particularly as several experienced players near the end of their international careers. He remains confident in the talent available and his ability to inspire the squad during the upcoming qualification campaigns.

“I have tremendous belief in the players at our disposal, and it is my job to bring the energy, ambition, and determination needed to keep Croatia among football’s elite,” Bilic added. “I am extremely motivated by this challenge, and I feel fully ready for it — now a more mature and experienced coach than I was in 2006, but with the same passion and drive to make Croatia strong, fearless, and successful.”