Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland manager following the country’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The Scottish Football Association confirmed Clarke’s departure on Saturday, shortly after Croatia’s victory over Ghana ended Scotland’s hopes of progressing to the Round of 32 as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
His resignation comes only a month after signing a new four-year contract.
Scotland opened their Group C campaign with a 1-0 win over Haiti in Boston before suffering a 1-0 defeat to Morocco and a 3-0 loss to Brazil in Miami. The results left them relying on other outcomes to qualify, but their hopes ended after Croatia’s win on Saturday.
In his farewell message, Clarke thanked his players and reflected on his time in charge.
“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.
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“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.”
Clarke took charge of Scotland seven years ago, ending the nation’s long wait for a major tournament after they had failed to qualify since the 1998 World Cup.
During his tenure, Scotland qualified for two UEFA European Championships before securing a place at the 2026 World Cup.
Despite those qualification achievements, Scotland struggled to make an impact at major tournaments. Their 1-0 victory over Haiti at this year’s World Cup was their only win across three tournament appearances under Clarke.
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell praised Clarke’s contribution despite the disappointing World Cup exit.
“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.”
Clarke’s departure ends one of the most successful managerial spells in Scotland’s recent history and leaves the Scottish FA searching for a successor ahead of the country’s next international campaign.
