Steve Clarke resigns as Scotland head coach after World Cup group-stage exit

Steve Clarke oversaw Scotland’s World Cup campaign that saw them fail to qualify from the group stage (Picture: Getty) Scotland are looking for a new head coach after Steve Clarke stepped down from his post following their exit from the 2026 World Cup. The Scots mustered three points from nine in Group C to end up behind Brazil and Morocco, with a minus three goal difference but it was not enough to secure a place among the eight best third-placed teams who move through to the last-32 of the competition. Soon after Croatia’s 2-1 win over Ghana on Saturday night confirmed that the Scots are still looking to qualify out of the group stages at a major finals for the first time, a statement on the national team’s official Twitter account read: ‘Scotland Men’s Head Coach Steve Clarke has stepped down from his role. ‘Our most successful National Team Head Coach has called time on his seven years in charge following our participation at the FIFA World Cup 2026.’ Don't miss a World Cup moment (Picture: Getty) We're witnessing history at this World Cup – our daily newsletter helps you make the most of it. Sign up. Clarke led Scotland to three out of the last four major tournaments and it was the national team’s first appearance in the World Cup finals since 1998. In a lengthy open letter to supporters on the Scottish FA’s website, the 62-year-old said: ‘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. Scotland’s fate was all-but confirmed after a heavy defeat against Brazil (Picture: Getty) The Tartan Army are heading home early from the World Cup (Picture: Getty) ‘Thanks for having me and good luck to my successor.’ Ian Maxwell, Scottish FA chief executive, thanked Clarke for his ‘record-breaking contribution’. He said: ‘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. Scotland’s only points came after their narrow win over Haiti (Picture: Getty) ‘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.’ It is understood that the former West Brom, Reading and Kilmarnock boss had told his squad of his decision at their hotel in Charlotte, North Carolina, which has been their base during the tournament, before the announcement of his departure. It is not yet clear if Clarke, backroom staff and players will fly home on Sunday or Monday. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source

Scotland manager Steve Clarke stepped down on Saturday following his side's elimination from the World Cup in the group stage, despite signing a four-year contract last month.

Steve Clarke steps down as Scotland boss after World Cup elimination confirmed  Sky SportsClarke steps down as Scotland boss after World Cup exit  BBCTom English: Scotland's ill-fated World Cup story finally at a sorry end  BBCSteve Clarke departs as Scotland Men’s Head Coach  Scottish Football AssociationThe great paradox of Scotland’s World Cup. The fans, superb. The team? Dismal | Ewan Murray  The Guardian

Steve Clarke has stepped down from his role as Scotland manager just 30 days after inking a new contract, following a disappointing exit from the 2026 World Cup group stage. His seven-year leadership brought Scotland back to significant tournaments, including their first World Cup appearance in 28 years. Despite an encouraging match against Haiti, defeats to Morocco and Brazil led to their early elimination.

Scotland played in its first World Cup since 1998, but failed to advance past the group stage. Manager Steve Clarke stepped down from his role.

Scotland eliminated from World Cup as they fall short of knockout stage again  ESPNClarke steps down as Scotland manager after World Cup exit  BBCTom English: Scotland's ill-fated World Cup story finally at a sorry end  BBCThe party’s officially over: Scotland eliminated from the World Cup  The GuardianSteve Clarke steps down as Scotland boss after World Cup elimination confirmed  Sky Sports