Bilic returns as Croatia coach after Dalic's exit

July 13 : Croatia have appointed former West Ham United manager Slaven Bilic as head coach following the departure of Zlatko Dalic, the Croatian Football Federation announced on Monday.Bilic, 57, returns to the national setup after previously coaching Croatia's Under-21 side before a six-year spell in charge of the senior team, during which he oversaw 65 matches.Dalic, Croatia's most successful coach, stepped down last week after nine years in charge, after the side were knocked out of the 2026 World Cup by Portugal in the round of 32."I have complete confidence in our players and it is my responsibility to bring energy, ambition and determination to ensure Croatia remains among football's elite," Bilic said in a statement. "I am genuinely happy to begin this challenge and feel fully prepa