Steve Clarke and the Scotland squad have not even left their World Cup base yet, but the search for his successor has already begun. The head coach’s resignation in the early hours of Sunday came as a shock, ending a reign that leaves a strong legacy but, as fans have admitted, a sense of relief after the team’s group-stage exit.
As the Tartan Army digest yet another early departure from a major tournament, attention has turned to who will take over. The speculation is dominated by two names: Ange Postecoglou and David Moyes.
“Steve Clarke resigns after Scotland's World Cup exit; fans want Postecoglou or Moyes.”
Tommy cautioned against expecting a quick fix: “I think Ange Postecoglou is a consideration but his recent record is poor. Whatever happens we have to accept this is no quick fix. The players let us down big time.”
Neil disagreed: “Postecoglou would be the perfect fit. He would get the players playing with swagger and confidence, and he can be pragmatic when needed.” Colin added: “Postecoglou. Let’s get the ball forward at pace and put teams under pressure. It’s time to leave behind the ‘let’s keep it tight’ philosophy we’ve followed since the 1990s.”
Gordon described Postecoglou as “a serial winner, who knows the Scottish game, has had great success as the Australian national coach and, most of all, knows how to get his players to score goals.” Kev D echoed that: “Scotland should turn to Postecoglou. He has the CV, having managed at a World Cup and in Scotland. His style will get the team back on the front foot and he has charisma and authority.”
Others, however, see David Moyes as the standout Scottish candidate. Sophie urged: “We need to do everything to ensure David Moyes is the next Scotland manager. Even if that means an interim until he’s available. He has the right experience and passion for Scotland.” Thomas agreed: “Glad to see Clarke go. Davie Moyes would be the next manager for me. I would prefer it to be a Scottish manager at least.” Eric argued: “There’s only one outstanding Scottish candidate - David Moyes. Way better tactically and equally as grumpy.”
Some fans looked further afield. Mark suggested: “There is no rush but I would look at Postecoglou, Kasper Hjulmand and Jurgen Klinsmann as an outsider. Whoever comes in has a good job as we will be at the next Euros with us being one of the host nations with a really good chance to get through groups for the first time.”
Ewan wondered if Roberto Martinez might be available: “Need someone who has experience of Scottish football and international football - could we consider Roberto Martinez if he leaves Portugal?” Gavin proposed Thomas Frank: “Given there are no outstanding Scottish candidates, I’d look at someone like Thomas Frank. Comes across as knowledgeable and intelligent with a tactical plan that would suit our team.”
The next manager inherits a squad that will automatically qualify for the 2028 European Championship as co-hosts, offering a rare chance to end decades of group-stage exits. But the decision, whoever it falls on, will shape the future of a nation still waiting for a maiden knockout berth.