Reflections on Croatian Football
In the balmy summer ambiance of Croatia, Slaven Bilic reflects on the distinct qualities that separate Croatian football from others, asserting that a nation with a population under four million remarkably holds its ground in the global arena.
“We possess immense talent,” he articulates, “but our success is rooted in a historical strength in team sports like basketball, water polo, and handball. Our culture encourages mixing and socializing outdoors, fostering early athletic development, although the rise of social media has shifted this dynamic somewhat.”
The Unique Bond Among Players
Bilic, who has both played for and coached the Croatian national team, emphasizes the unique bond amongst players, stating,
“Our camaraderie surpasses mere professional relationships. Even after their international commitments, many players keep in touch.”
This intangible connection, he believes, is vital but difficult to quantify.
Coaching Journey and Philosophy
With a diverse coaching portfolio worldwide, Bilic has transitioned from being a stalwart center-back for clubs such as West Ham and Everton in the 1990s — part of the illustrious Croatian side that achieved third place in the 1998 World Cup — to coaching the national team from 2006 to 2012. His tenure helped herald a new era, introducing talents like Luka Modric, Ivan Rakitic, and Vedran Corluka into the senior squad after mentoring them at the under-21 level.
Following his national role, Bilic embarked on an international coaching journey that included stints across several countries, including a recent year at Al Fateh in Saudi Arabia, a position he vacated in 2024. At 56, Bilic remains committed to evolving his coaching philosophies, learning from every experience.
“I can’t pinpoint a singular moment that has shaped me; rather, my entire life has woven a fabric of football experiences and lessons,”
he shared, recalling how methodologies from various coaches, some dating back to his time in Hajduk Split’s academy, influence his daily practices.
Challenges in Coaching
Bilic reflects on the complexities and pressures of different football environments, describing the Saudi Arabian league dynamics. Contrary to common belief, he finds coaching in Saudi Arabia challenging despite the league’s lower prestige compared to the Premier League. With the high stakes involved and a majority of foreign players competing for spots, he faces nuanced challenges, including the need to balance local player representation while competing against stars like Sadio Mane and Riyad Mahrez.
“You have to innovate constantly because, in many ways, coaching there can test your creativity more than in England,”
he states.
Playing Style and Young Talent
Throughout his coaching career, Bilic has consistently prioritized a dynamic playing style.
“I want my teams to function effectively with the ball; that’s essential. My job involves ensuring that defensively, we are organized and strong,”
he asserts. Drawing on successful stints with midfielders like Rakitic and Payet, Bilic seeks to create an environment where every player thrives, arguing that the chemistry among talented players can elevate the performance of the entire team.
For Premier League supporters, his successful integration of players like Dimitri Payet at West Ham is unforgettable. Bilic remembers how, during Payet’s impactful debut season, success seemed to flow effortlessly, enhanced by a supportive atmosphere both on and off the pitch. Yet he balances this with the reality that not all players maintain consistent form, revealing that many struggles are rooted in personal challenges often hidden from coaches.
Fostering young talent is another cornerstone of Bilic’s approach. He remains open to including youthful players in the squad, having done so with both Rakitic and Declan Rice.
“Young players are incredibly adaptable and bring vibrant energy to the squad. They can thrive on positivity, but crucially, they need experienced players during tougher moments in matches,”
he explains.
Looking Ahead
As Bilic contemplates his next career move, an unwavering belief in projects centered on attractive football and the development of young athletes remains his guiding principle. After decades immersed in the global football landscape, Bilic continues to exhibit a spirit of adventure and a passion for the game that have defined his journey.
