Scotland head coach resigns after FIFA World Cup 2026 exit
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Steve Clarke has stepped down as Scotland head coach following the team's exit from the FIFA World Cup 2026. Croatia's victory over Ghana confirmed Scotland's elimination, ending Clarke's seven-year tenure.
World Cup campaign ends in group stage
Scotland returned to the FIFA World Cup for the first time in 28 years under Clarke after also securing back-to-back UEFA EURO qualifications. The team began its campaign with a 1-0 win over Haiti but suffered defeats to Morocco and Brazil, finishing third in Group C and missing out on the Round of 32 on goal difference.
Despite signing a new four-year contract before the tournament, Clarke announced his resignation after the World Cup exit.
Emotional farewell
In a statement released by the Scottish Football Association, Clarke thanked his players, saying it had been "truly an honour" to be their manager and wished his successor the very best.
Scottish FA praises Clarke's legacy
Scottish FA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell said the World Cup disappointment should not overshadow the progress made under Clarke, who transformed Scotland from a pot-four nation into a regular major tournament qualifier.
Who could replace him?
According to reports, Everton manager David Moyes is among the frontrunners to succeed Clarke ahead of UEFA EURO 2028, where Scotland could be playing on home soil.
