Slaven Bilić appointed Croatia coach as Zlatko Dalić eyes UAE role

After nearly a decade at the helm, Zlatko Dalić stepped down as head coach of the Croatian men’s national football team, ending an era that produced a World Cup final in 2018 and a bronze medal in 2022. The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) is set to confirm Slaven Bilić as Dalić’s successor, with a contract expected to run for two years through Euro 2028. Ivica Olić will retain his position as U‑21 coach.

Reports indicate Dalić is in advanced talks with the United Arab Emirates Football Association to take over that national side, with a multi‑year deal and a salary cited around €5 million per year. While Bilić assembles his own staff, former defender Vedran Ćorluka is reported to be a contested figure, with both coaches interested in adding him to their teams. Captain Luka Modrić’s continued involvement with the squad is also said to hinge on Bilić’s appointment.

Other candidates mentioned in the selection process included Nenad Bjelica and Ivica Olić, but the federation appears to have coalesced around Bilić, whose earlier tenure (2006‑2012) included Euro 2008 quarter‑finals. The transition marks a new chapter for Croatia’s “Vatreni” as they prepare for upcoming qualification campaigns.