The return of Bilic has clearly revitalised the dressing room, even if the transition period is only just beginning. Modric noted that the arrival of a new manager naturally increases the intensity among the players, as everyone is desperate to prove their worth to the coaching staff. With a blend of legendary veterans and emerging talents like Josko Gvardiol and Luka Vuskovic, the squad is currently in a state of evolution. The focus is now on refining the system before they face elite opposition, where errors in concentration will be punished more severely.
“It’s still too early for conclusions, but it’s quite positive. As always, when there is a new coach, everyone wants to give more, a lot more energy, desire, will, everything. I’m not saying that wasn’t there before, but it comes to the fore even more when there’s a new coach. There are some things he wants from us, it will take time to perfect it all, but it goes easier when you win. It was important, and I believe that in the next match we will repeat the good things and try to reduce the bad ones to a minimum, because we are playing against one of the best teams in the world.”