Steve Clarke he stepped down as Scotland head coach following the country’s elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending his seven-year tenure at the helm.
The Scottish FA confirmed Clarke’s resignation shortly after Croatia’s 2-1 win over Ghana ended Scotland’s hopes of progressing to the last 16 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed sides.
BBC Scotland reported that Clarke informed his players of his decision on Saturday, while the squad remained at their training base in Charlotte.
His departure comes just a month after signing a new four-year contract.
The World Cup campaign ended in disappointment
Scotland opened their Group C campaign with a 1-0 win over Haiti in Boston before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Morocco.
Their hopes of reaching the knockout stages were dealt a major blow with a 3-0 defeat by Brazil in Miami, leaving them dependent on results elsewhere.
Those small hopes were officially dashed after Croatia defeated Ghana on Saturday, knocking Scotland out of the tournament.
In his farewell message, Clarke thanked his players for their commitment during his tenure.
“The most emotional part of this farewell is for my players, without whom we wouldn’t have any of the memories we’ve made from 2019 to now,” Clarke said.
“They deserve all the praise and adulation they get and it was a real honor to call them their gaffer.
“Thank you for receiving me and good luck to my successor.”
The seven-year reign is coming to an end
Clarke took charge of Scotland in 2019, ending the nation’s long wait for a major football tournament by leading them to two European Championships and the 2026 World Cup.
Although Scotland qualified for three consecutive major tournaments under his leadership, they failed to progress beyond the group stage in any of them. Their 1-0 win over Haiti earlier this month was the team’s only win in those tournament appearances.
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell paid tribute to Clarke’s achievements despite the World Cup disappointment.
“While we are all disappointed to exit the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven years at the helm,” said Maxwell.
“From starting as a four-pot team in 2019 to top of our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than fulfilled the task of getting Scotland back to a major championship.
“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that once the disappointment of elimination from the World Cup wears off, Scotland fans will be grateful for the memories of marching proudly into major tournaments again.”
