# Bilic returns to Croatia

> Slaven Bilic's bravery and belief power Croatia's second coming.
- Title: Bilic returns to Croatia · the Guardian | Shortify
- Summary: Slaven Bilic's bravery and belief power Croatia's second coming. Slaven Bilic returns as Croatia manager after nine years, preparing to face England in…
- Keywords: slaven bilic, croatia, nations league, england, luka modric, zlatko dalic, sports, Bilic, returns, the Guardian
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/oct/02/slaven-bilic-croatia-manager-second-coming-england-nations-league
- Published: 2026-10-02T10:20:54+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: slaven bilic, croatia, nations league, england, luka modric, zlatko dalic, sports
## Bilic back in Croatia
Slaven Bilic returns as Croatia manager after nine years, preparing for England Nations League match in Rijeka.
## Bilic's past interview
Bilic once said, 'I don’t believe in comebacks' during a 2012 interview in London.

> I don’t believe in comebacks
## Bilic's return timeline
Bilic returned to Croatia in July 2026 after a 23-month break from coaching.
## Bilic's managerial style
Bilic wants players to press high, take risks, and be brave, unlike previous manager Zlatko Dalic.
## Modric's support
Luka Modric scored first goal of Bilic's return and called him 'everything to us, he’s just incredible'.

> Luka is everything to us, he’s just incredible
## Bilic's challenge
Bilic faces tough test against England with veteran squad and recent 4-1 loss to Spain.
## Key takeaway

Slaven Bilic returns as Croatia manager after nine years, preparing to face England in Nations League.