West Bromwich Albion’s hopes of a Slaven Bilic return have faded after the former Baggies boss agreed to take charge of Croatia. The 57-year-old will leave his international future in the hands of the national team — a sharp contrast to the rumours swirling around The Hawthorns just weeks ago.

What happened with Bilic and West Bromwich Albion?

Bilic’s exit from West Bromwich Albion in December 2020 marked the start of a nomadic spell across three continents. He managed Beijing Guoan in China, Watford in England, and Al Fateh FC in Saudi Arabia — but none of those stints delivered silverware. The Baggies’ relegation from the Premier League in his final season only added to the controversy, yet Bilic remained a constant name in the speculation whenever Albion changed managers.

Eric Ramsay’s sacking in June 2026 briefly revived those links. James Morrison was installed as caretaker boss, and the club’s hierarchy hinted at a rebuild rather than an immediate push for promotion. Still, the Bilic-to-Albion chatter refused to die — until now.

Why Bilic’s Croatia return matters for West Brom

The Baggies sit 21st in the Championship with 51 points from 46 games, 44 points behind leaders Coventry. Their goal difference of -10 (48 scored, 58 conceded) shows the scale of the task facing Morrison. The club’s hierarchy has made clear that promotion is not a realistic target this season, so any managerial change would hinge on culture and youth development rather than league position.

Bilic’s departure removes a potential distraction. His return to international management — a role he held from 2006 to 2012 — signals the end of the latest chapter in Albion’s managerial carousel. The Baggies now face a season under Morrison without the shadow of a marquee appointment looming over them.

What’s next for James Morrison at West Bromwich Albion?

Morrison’s first pre-season lineup gave early clues about his vision. Shilen Patel, the club’s new sporting director, has already moved in the transfer window to bring in fresh faces. The focus is on building a forward-thinking side while blooding young talent — a strategy that could decide whether Morrison keeps his job beyond the campaign.

The Baggies’ recent form reads LDWWD. With just 13 wins from 46 games, they need a clear upward trend to avoid another season of struggle. Morrison’s challenge is to turn that around while navigating a tight budget and a competitive Championship table.

League standing: 21st in Championship, 51 pts, 13W-14D-19L from 46 games, recent form LDWWD.