Steve Clarke resigned as Scotland’s head coach within an hour of the nation’s World Cup elimination being confirmed, the Scottish FA announced on Saturday. The decision came just weeks after the 62-year-old signed a new four-year contract, and moments after Croatia’s 2-1 win over Ghana ended any faint hope of progressing as one of the best third-placed teams.
Scotland’s campaign unravelled in Miami on Wednesday with a 3-0 defeat to Brazil, a result that left their goal difference at minus three. A 1-0 win over Haiti in the opening game, sealed by John McGinn’s historic goal, had raised hopes of reaching the knockout stages for the first time. But a 1-0 loss to Morocco and the heavy Brazil defeat proved fatal.
“Steve Clarke quits as Scotland boss within an hour of their World Cup elimination being confirmed.”
Clarke, who took over in 2019, ended Scotland’s 28-year wait for a World Cup and led the team to two European Championships. But the side managed only one win across three major tournaments under his stewardship. Criticism of his cautious approach and terse broadcast interviews had intensified during the finals.
In an open letter to supporters, Clarke did not address the shortcomings but lavished praise on his squad. “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,” he said. “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.”
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell thanked Clarke for his “record-breaking contribution”, adding: “We 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.”
Players were told of Clarke’s resignation at the team’s Charlotte base shortly after Croatia’s victory. The timing of the announcement, so soon after a new deal, will raise questions about the decision to extend his contract before the tournament.