Slaven Bilić is the reported favorite to replace Zlatko Dalić as the head coach of the Croatia national team, according to reports from Interia Sport. This transition follows Croatia’s exit from the North American World Cup in the round of 16 after a 1-2 loss to Portugal, and Dalić’s upcoming contract expiration.
Why is Zlatko Dalić leaving the Croatia national team?
Zlatko Dalić’s tenure is ending due to a combination of a finishing contract and a dip in tournament performance. After winning silver in Russia 2018 and bronze in Qatar 2022, the team struggled in the most recent World Cup group stage. Croatia suffered a 2-4 loss to England and a narrow 1-0 win over Panama before securing a 2-1 victory against Ghana to advance.
Dalić told journalists upon returning home on Sunday that he will meet with federation officials in the coming days to decide what is “best for Croatian football.” Reports indicate Dalić has already reached an agreement with a club in the United Arab Emirates, where he is expected to earn a significant sum.
Who is Slaven Bilić and what is his track record?
Slaven Bilić is a veteran of Croatian football who previously led the national team from 2006 to 2012. The 57-year-old coach has a mixed history with the national side, having reached the quarter-finals of Euro 2008 (exiting after a match with Turkey) and failing to progress past the group stage at Euro 2012.
Since leaving the national team, Bilić has managed several high-profile clubs across Europe and Asia:
- Russia: Lokomotiv Moscow
- Turkey: Beşiktaş
- England: West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, and Watford
- Saudi Arabia: Al-Fateh (departed August 2024)
What happens next for the Croatian squad?
The immediate priority for the team, regardless of the manager, is the current edition of the Nations League. Croatia competes in Division A, where they face a challenging group consisting of England, Spain, and the Czech Republic.
Comparison: Bilić vs. Dalić Eras
| Metric | Slaven Bilić (2006-2012) | Zlatko Dalić (2017-Present) |
|---|---|---|
| World Cup Peak | N/A | Silver (2018), Bronze (2022) |
| Euro Performance | Quarter-finals (2008) | N/A |
| Recent Status | Unemployed since Aug 2024 | Contract expiring |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Zlatko Dalić officially fired?
No. According to Dalić, he is scheduled to meet with the federation to finalize a decision. However, reports suggest his contract will not be extended.
When did Slaven Bilić last coach?
Bilić was last employed by the Saudi Arabian club Al-Fateh, leaving the position in August 2024.
Who are Croatia’s opponents in the Nations League?
Croatia will face England, Spain, and the Czech Republic in Division A.
What do you think about the return of Slaven Bilić? Can he replicate the success of the Dalić era? Let us know in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for more international football updates.
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