Steve Clarke quits as Scotland elimination confirmed

Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland manager after their group stage exit at the World Cup.

Their 3-0 loss to Brazil left them needing a number of other results to go their way.

Croatia’s win over Ghana on Saturday extinguished any final hopes of progressing, and Clarke’s resignation was made public moments after the final whistle.

The Scotland squad were told of Clarke’s departure earlier on Saturday at their World Cup training base in Charlotte.

Clarke had signed a four-year extension just a month ago.

“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,” said Clarke.

“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’s reign is statistically the most successful in Scotland history, and he is the only manager to take Scotland to three major tournaments.

He took the Tartan Army to their first tournament since 1998 when they qualified for Euro 2020, and returned to the next edition in 2024. Their qualification for this year’s World Cup made global headlines after their sensational 4-2 win over Denmark last November, featuring sensational goals from Kieran Tierney, Kenny McLean and Scott McTominay.

However, Scotland’s performances at those tournaments have been underwhelming, with the 1-0 win over Haiti a few weeks ago being their only win.

“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,” said Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell.

“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.”

Cover Photo: “2012 Olympic Football – Hampden Park (3)” by daniel0685 is licensed under CC BY 2.0