West Ham boss Slaven Bilic is a rock star. No, seriously. Watch this:
That is Bilic's rock band side project, Rawbau, who were formed in his hometown of Split in Croatia. It's not his first, either. Back when he retired in 2001, he tried his hand at the whole music game with a band called Newera, although it never really took off.
That didn't stop Bilic from returning with Rawbau to record a rousing anthem for Croatia's 2008 Euro bid during his stint as coach of the national team. However, after Croatia finished top of their group, they were promptly knocked out by Turkey on penalties which led to widespread embarassment for Bilic and spelled the end of his musical career.
Slaven Bilic slapping the bass. Photo: @niallJClees | Twitter
However, legendary heavy metal band Iron Maiden have made an offer to Bilic that we really hope he takes them up on. Bassist Steve Harris is a massive West Ham fan and once trained with the club, and he met Bilic when the Croatian still played for the Hammers.
"I have known Bilic for a number of years now, the first time I met him was when he played for West Ham," Harris told Slobodna Dalmacija. "My son George was the mascot when we met at the game and we have stayed in contact."
Steve Harris, music legend, West Ham fan and friend of Slaven Bilic. Photo: @miko8282 | Twitter
Bilic is a big fan of the British group, and Harris wouldn't rule out the possibility of Bilic joining them on-stage for one last hurrah.
"Bilic is really a great guy and is doing a fantastic job at West Ham. With regards to being a guest at the concert, I am not sure if he will be in Split, but if he can make it we will see. . ." said Harris.
Bilic's rock star days may be behind him as he's turned out to be one of the most exciting and progressive coaches in world football. That being said, we sure would love to see him give it one last hurrah. Reunion show at the Olympic Stadium anybody?
(H/T Croatia Week)
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