LaLiga
Barcelona Hold Talks With Two Dinamo Zagreb Wonderkids As Deco Scouts Future Stars
Barcelona are never shy when it comes to finding the next big thing, and this week their sporting director, Deco, was spotted in Croatia — and not just for the scenery. The former midfield magician made the trip to Zagreb to check out two highly-rated Dinamo Zagreb youngsters, sparking plenty of buzz across Europe’s football market.
Barca’s Talent Hunt Goes Global
Barcelona may be battling Real Madrid at the top of La Liga, but off the pitch, they’re plotting for the future. Deco, the man tasked with shaping the club’s next generation, traveled to Stadion Maksimir to watch Dinamo Zagreb defeat Fenerbahce 3-1 in the Europa League. He wasn’t just a tourist — he was there on business, accompanied by agent Andy Bara.
And business means talent. Lots of it.
Deco Meets Brazilian Prospect Rafael Belinho
While in Zagreb, Deco reportedly held an informal meeting with Brazilian wonderkid Rafael Belinho, joined by the player’s father. The chat, which went down at the Westin Zagreb Hotel, was said to be more of an introduction — but it shows Barca want to get ahead of the competition. Belinho is already considered one of the most exciting young players in Croatia, and the Catalans are keen to establish direct ties early.
Barcelona Still Eyeing Cardoso Varela
Deco’s trip also reignited Barca’s long-standing interest in Cardoso Varela, a midfield talent they’ve been monitoring closely. The Blaugrana even tried to sign him last summer but came up short. Despite Varela recently penning a contract extension with Dinamo until 2028, Barcelona aren’t backing down. Another approach could come as soon as next summer, proving just how serious they are about landing him.
Why This Matters For Barca
Barcelona’s La Masia academy remains iconic, but the club knows it can’t just rely on homegrown stars anymore. With the market more competitive than ever, identifying and securing talents like Belinho and Varela could shape the future of Camp Nou.
Deco himself summed it up perfectly with his actions: Barca are not waiting around. They’re scouting, meeting, and building relationships — and in the world of elite football, those early moves often make the difference.
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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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