Slaven Bilić could resign if Croatia lose to Spain by five goals
Bilić reportedly prepared to quit after a five-goal or greater defeat; federation says it will not sack him at this stage.
Croatia's head coach Slaven Bilić has told close associates that he could step down if the national team suffers another heavy defeat — specifically a loss to Spain by five or more goals on Tuesday (October 6, 2026).
Those inside the Croatian camp say the idea of a self-initiated resignation does not come directly from a public statement by Bilić, but from people who know his character well and expect that such a humiliating margin would prompt him to leave.
The Croatian Football Federation has no current plans to dismiss Bilić. Officials believe a single lopsided result would not automatically trigger a sacking, particularly if the team shows signs of reaction after the 0:7 reversal earlier this year.
Still, sources warn that if Croatia endures another heavy defeat of five goals or more against Spain, Bilić himself might decide that resignation is the appropriate course. If that happens, his second spell in charge would end after only four matches.
The Spain fixture comes at a sensitive moment for the national team: supporters and federation officials are watching for a response on the pitch following the earlier heavy loss, and any repeat collapse would intensify calls for change.
Whether Bilić will carry on if Croatia avoids a blowout on October 6 remains uncertain; the coming match is likely to determine the coach's immediate future.
Photo: press material from the event
