Croatia have reappointed former defender Slaven Bilic as manager of the men’s national side, ending the nine‑year tenure of Zlatko Dalic, who stepped down after the World Cup round‑of‑16 loss to Portugal. Bilic, who previously led Croatia from 2006 to 2012, said he has "complete confidence in our players" and is ready to bring "energy, ambition and determination" to keep the nation among football’s elite.

Bilic featured in Croatia’s 1998 World Cup semi‑final loss to France and earned 44 caps. His first spell produced 42 wins, 15 draws and 8 defeats from 65 matches. After managing clubs such as West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion and Watford, his most recent role was with Saudi Arabia’s Al‑Fateh during the 2023‑2024 season. He claims to return as a more mature, experienced coach while retaining the same motivation to see Croatia remain powerful, bold and successful.