Croacia ya ha encontrado un sustituto para Zlatko Dalić, y este: "Quiero a Luko Modrić, pero la decisión es suya"

Croatia has found its replacement for Zlatko Dalic, with Slaven Bilić set to take charge of the national team following Dalic’s departure after the World Cup. The decision marks the end of a tenure that saw Croatia qualify for the quarterfinals of the tournament, ending their campaign against Portugal. Dalic, who had led the team since October 2017, will step down, though his legacy includes guiding Croatia to a historic World Cup final in Russia 2018 and a second-place finish, followed by silver medals at the Nations League in 2023. This makes him one of the most successful coaches in Croatian football history, having held the position longer than any other. Bilić, a former player and coach, will become the first person in Croatia's football history to serve as head coach twice. He previously guided the national team during the 2006 and 2012 European Championships, leading them to the quarterfinals in 2008. His coaching career began with Hajduk Split, where he played before transitioning into management. Despite limited experience early on, Bilić eventually earned recognition, becoming the only Croatian coach to fail to reach a major tournament, specifically the 2010 World Cup in South Africa, where Croatia was eliminated in the group stage. However, Bilić later achieved success with clubs such as West Ham and West Bromwich Albion, managing over 100 Premier League matches. The announcement came after Bilić expressed gratitude to Dalic for his achievements, acknowledging the high expectations placed upon him. “I am convinced that Slaven is the right person for this role,” said Marijan Kustić, president of the Croatian Football Association. “He is a former national team player with extensive coaching experience, which gives him the credibility to lead Croatia to new successes.” Kustić emphasized that Bilić would have the support of players, fans, and the association, adding that the team must remain competitive on the world stage. Bilić himself voiced his appreciation for the trust placed in him. “I thank President Kustić and the board of the association for the opportunity to once again guide the Croatian national team,” he said. “I understand the high expectations after the outstanding performance under Zlatko Dalic. I am ready for the challenge, and I believe Croatia can continue to be a strong and successful team.” One question that remains unanswered is whether Bilić can convince Luka Modrić to stay with the national team beyond the current season. Modrić, the captain and one of Croatia’s most iconic players, has been a key figure in recent years, and many expect him to retire from international duty soon. While Bilić has not directly addressed the issue, he has hinted at the importance of maintaining unity within the squad. “We live and breathe with the selected squad,” he said, emphasizing the collective effort required to succeed. As Bilić prepares to take charge, his initial focus will be on assembling a technical staff familiar with his methods. It is likely that several assistants will come from his previous coaching roles, ensuring continuity in strategy and philosophy. The Croatian public, however, is particularly interested in the future of Modrić, whose leadership and experience could prove invaluable to the team’s success. Whether Bilić can secure Modrić’s continued commitment remains to be seen, but his appointment signals a new chapter for Croatian football.