Overview
- The HNS executive committee unanimously approved Bilić’s nomination on Monday, July 13, 2026, following a proposal from president Marijan Kustić and prior endorsement from the federation’s technical commission.
- Bilić said he has “complete confidence” in the squad and pledged to bring energy, ambition and determination to keep Croatia among the world’s elite.
- He returns 14 years after his first Croatia spell (2006–2012), when he led the team to the Euro 2008 quarter-finals and posted a record of 42 wins, 14 draws and 9 defeats.
- Coverage notes the likelihood of reunions with veterans Luka Modrić and Ivan Perišić but reports do not yet confirm support staff, contract length or Bilić’s competitive calendar.
- The appointment follows Croatia’s 2–1 World Cup loss to Portugal and Zlatko Dalić’s departure, and it raises immediate questions about squad selection, leadership in the locker room, and the federation’s short-term plan for major tournaments.