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World Leagues Demand Role In FIFA Calendar Decisions
The World Leagues Association (WLA) has again called for “structured collaboration, between international governing bodies and national leagues” on the international calendar to avoid disruption of national competitions and to protect player welfare.
The WLA and its leagues have been left outside the stakeholder groups and meetings that FIFA has held over the international calendar and is demanding that they should have a seat at the table. FIFA has shown no signs of relenting and allowing them into the discussion, including using their clubs and league-developed players for their own competitions.
Meeting in London, the WLA board received an update on the legal complaint filed at the European Commission by the WLA’s European members and Fifpro Europe. That filing challenges FIFA’s unilateral decisions in setting the international match calendar and the Club World Cup and requests that “FIFA introduces a transparent, objective, and inclusive decision-making framework in line with the recent judgements of the European Court of Justice,” said the WLA.
“It is in the interests of the whole game to protect the economic and social value of national leagues, which are watched by millions of fans, and support 4,000 clubs and 130,000 professional players, providing football’s foundations.”
In separate business the WLA elected Luigi De Siervo, CEO of Lega Serie A (Italy), as vice-chair, succeeding Enrique Bonilla (Liga MX, Mexico), who has stepped down after three years, following two years as Chair. De Siervo joins the WLA Management Board, which includes chair Richard Masters, (Premier League, England) and vice-chair Don Garber (Major League Soccer, USA).
The WLA board also touched on the ruling by the European Court of Justice in the Diarra case and “reiterated its commitment to providing legal certainty for clubs and ensuring the protection of the transfer system, which plays a vital role in rewarding clubs for training young talents.” The WLA said this should be achieved by “social dialogue and in full respect of national laws”.
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**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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