Support TIME. Preserve the truth.
World Cup 2026

Croatia decides on new coach

Croatia

Slaven Bilic is the newest coach of the Croatian National Team. 

The news was announced on Monday by the Croatian Football Federation. 

Bilic will replace Dalic, who ended his nine-year reign as Croatia coach after their elimination from the World Cup. 

Croatia was eliminated by Portugal in the 1/16 finals of the World Cup. 

The 57-year-old Bilic was also Croatia's coach from 2006 to 2012. 

Most recently, Croatian Dalic managed the Saudi Arabian team, Al-Fateh. 

also Former Croatia coach takes charge of United Arab Emirates football Former Croatia coach takes charge of United Arab Emirates

"I would like to thank President Kustic and the leadership of the Federation for the trust and support they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team again. I am extremely excited by this challenge, for which I feel fully prepared, a more mature and experienced coach than I was in 2006, but with exactly the same motivation and desire to see Croatia strong, fearless and successful," Bilic said. 

He has also managed teams such as Besiktas, Watford and Al-Ittihad in the past.