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Newly appointed Croatia head coach Slaven Bilic has made persuading Luka Modric to continue playing for the national team his top priority following the country's World Cup setback.

Bilic returns for his second stint in charge of the Croatian national team, succeeding Zlatko Dalic, who stepped down after nine years at the helm following the World Cup. The Croatian Football Federation has chosen to bring back Bilic, known for his passionate leadership and previous success with the side.

This marks the 57-year-old’s second spell as Croatia manager, having previously led the team from 2006 to 2012 during a period widely regarded as one of growth and stability for Croatian football.

At his official unveiling, Bilic wasted no time addressing the main issue dominating Croatian football discussions — the future of captain Luka Modric. The new coach stated that while he intends to speak with the veteran midfielder soon, there will be no pressure or demands placed upon him, only deep appreciation for what Modric has meant to the team and the nation.

“My first step is to set up the coaching headquarters, which still needs some fine-tuning. The second is to speak with the players, especially Luka Modric. We all know what Luka represents. The decision will be entirely his, considering how much he means to football and to our national team. He is far more than just the greatest player in our country’s history,” Bilic said.

Bilic also disclosed that his communication with the AC Milan captain has remained intact over the years, despite changes in leadership. “I already spoke with him a year ago. One of the first things I’ll do is talk with him again. Of course, I’d love him to keep playing for the national team, but in the end, the decision is his,” he added.

While Croatia awaits Modric’s decision, the midfielder’s future has also become a pressing issue in Serie A. AC Milan are reportedly urging him to commit to one more season, with club owner Gerry Cardinale and head coach Ruben Amorim personally engaging in talks to convince him to stay at San Siro.

Despite missing out on Champions League qualification, Milan’s management remains optimistic that the 40-year-old, who turns 41 in September, will activate the option to extend his contract. Earlier reports had suggested Modric would retire following the World Cup, but that possibility now appears less certain.