Croatia head coach Slaven Bilić has declared all four upcoming UEFA Nations League fixtures to be of massive importance for the national team. He identified the opening match away to the Czech Republic as the critical foundation upon which everything else will be built.

"All four matches are massive. We can’t overlook the Czech Republic, because everything is built around that match," Bilić told reporters at a press conference in Zagreb. Returning to the helm after 14 years, he expressed excitement about being back in a familiar environment.

Preparations and squad status

Preparations for the October group stage are underway in Zagreb, with the coach satisfied with the available personnel. While some players have changed clubs and others are at different stages of fitness, Bilić does not plan to give days off before the camp begins. One or two full-pitch training matches are planned to achieve the necessary readiness.

He highlighted the development of young players like Luka Vušković, who is already getting minutes at his new club, and the positive start made by Franjo Ivanović following his transfer. In defence, he believes there is enough quality to play with either three or four at the back, though he personally prefers a four-defender system. "We have the flexibility to defend with four and attack with three," he added. Joško Gvardiol, who often plays as a full-back for Manchester City, is seen as a centre-back for Croatia, while wingers or second strikers Martin Baturina and Luka Sučić have each scored three or four goals already this season.

Modrić stays, Budimir hits century

Bilić voiced his pleasure that Luka Modrić is continuing his career with both the national team and AC Milan. "We’re all happy that he’s staying. His passion has never been in question," the coach said. He also noted that goalkeeper Dominik Livaković was selected based solely on his training performance, not due to his Croatian background.

In attack, Ante Budimir reached a significant milestone by scoring his 100th league goal in Spain while playing for Osasuna. Ivan Perišić remains a vital resource who can play equally well as a full-back or on the wing.

Croatia currently sits second in their World Cup qualifying group with six points from three games. Following their last defeat, a 2:1 loss to Portugal in early July, their form in the last five matches reads three wins and two defeats. The last meeting between these two sides in Prague ended in a goalless draw.

Read the full report at total-croatia-news.com