Steve Clarke has stepped down as manager of Scotland after seven years in charge. He leaves following Scotland's 3-0 defeat in their final World Cup game to Brazil.
Disappointing World Cup campaign
It comes after the Tartan Army suffered a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign, and ended up grouped at their first tournament on the world stage since 1998, with a 1-0 win over Haiti in the opening games the only points they managed to pick up.
It has been an anxious wait for the Scots, who, despite losing 3-0 to Brazil in Miami on Wednesday night (June 24th), their exit was not confirmed until Sunday evening (28th June) after Croatia’s win over Ghana meant that Clarke’s side could not finish as one of the eight best third-placed teams.
Clarke’s Scotland achievements
Though it ended in a disappointing manner, Clarke will always be remembered for getting Scotland to their first major tournament since France 98, when they beat Serbia 5-4 on penalties in the Nations League playoffs to qualify for Euro 2020, then four years later, they qualified for Euro 2024 automatically this time, as they did for the 2026 World Cup.
However, during his three major tournaments, Scotland have failed to make it out of the group stage at any point, a feat which they have yet to achieve on any sort of historical level.
Clarke’s statement
In his statement, Steve Clarke spoke about the honour of being able to coach such a talented group of Scotland players.
“The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn't have had any of the memories that we've accumulated from 2019 until now. They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive, and it was truly an honour to be called their gaffer.
“Thanks for having me, and good luck to my successor."
Scottish FA chief executive statement
The chief executive of the Scottish FA, Ian Maxwell, also said a few words about Clarke, the evolution of the Scottish team since 2019, and the Tartan Army's endless support across America.
“While we are all disappointed to have exited the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven years in charge.
“From starting as a pot four team in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than delivered on the remit to take Scotland back to a major tournament.
“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination subsides, the Scotland supporters will be thankful for the memories of marching with pride at major tournaments once again.
"Finally, on behalf of the board of the Scottish FA, I would like to make special mention to our incredible supporters.
“The many thousands who have travelled to the United States to celebrate the return to a World Cup, making a significant financial commitment to do so, have once again shown themselves to be exceptional ambassadors for our country and our national game.”
