Scotland head coach Steve Clarke resigns after seven years in charge following the team’s elimination from the 2026 World Cup, with Scotland failing to reach the knockout stage. Reports say Clarke stepped down shortly after qualification hopes ended on Friday night. His tenure included qualifying Scotland for three of the last four major tournaments, but performances at finals were poor, with Scotland winning just one of nine games and exiting at the group stage in those campaigns.
Bookmakers and multiple outlets list David Moyes as an early favourite to replace Clarke. Moyes, who is in a second spell at Everton, is described as having restored his reputation after earlier spells at Manchester United and Sunderland. Other names being considered include Ange Postecoglou, who has recent success winning the Europa League with Tottenham, and has been working as a pundit since leaving Nottingham Forest. Additional potential candidates mentioned across coverage include former Celtic manager and player-related contenders and figures tied to Scottish football, such as Alex Neil and Steven Naismith, along with Steven Gerrard and other high-profile former managers.
Clarke’s resignation follows an apparent shock decision despite a newly signed four-year contract and Scotland’s co-hosting of Euro 2028 alongside England, Wales and the Republic of Ireland.
