Introduction
Scottish football fans were left stunned as national team head coach Steve Clarke revealed that there is a 75% chance he will step down after the 2026 World Cup. The announcement has sparked widespread discussion about the future of Scottish football and the legacy Clarke will leave behind.
Since taking charge in 2019, Steve has transformed Scotland’s national team, guiding them to consecutive European Championships and instilling a sense of belief that had been missing for years. However, with his contract running until the end of the 2026 World Cup, Steve has hinted that he may not renew his deal, leading to speculation about his next move.
Here are five shocking reasons why Steve could leave Scotland after the 2026 World Cup and what this could mean for the team’s future.
1. Clarke Has Already Achieved Historic Success with Scotland
One of the biggest reasons Steve may walk away is that he has already achieved what many considered impossible—making Scotland a competitive force in international football again.
- Euro 2020 Qualification: Steve led Scotland to their first major tournament in over two decades, ending a 22-year absence from international competitions.
- Back-to-Back Euros: Scotland qualified for Euro 2024, proving their resurgence was no fluke.
- World Cup Ambitions: Clarke has openly stated that his ultimate goal is to take Scotland to the 2026 World Cup—a feat they haven’t achieved since 1998.
Having accomplished so much, he may feel his mission is complete by the time 2026 arrives, allowing him to step down on a high note.
2. The Challenge of Sustained Success
While Steve has done an incredible job, the next phase of Scotland’s development will be even tougher. The challenge is not just about qualifying for tournaments—it’s about making a deep run in them.
- Scotland has struggled in major tournaments, failing to progress past the group stage in their last Euro appearance.
- The gap between Scotland and top European nations remains significant, and Steve may feel he has taken the team as far as he can.
- Sustaining success requires long-term squad development, and Steve may prefer to step aside and allow a fresh perspective to take the team forward.
The question is: Does Clarke want to commit to another four-year cycle of rebuilding and progression?
3. Interest from Club Football Could Lure Him Away
Steve Clarke has extensive experience in club football, having managed West Bromwich Albion, Reading, and Kilmarnock before taking the Scotland job. With his international success, it’s likely that top clubs will be interested in his services after 2026.
- Premier League and EFL clubs could offer lucrative contracts, making a return to club football tempting.
- Scottish clubs like Celtic or Rangers may consider him a prime candidate if they seek a change in leadership.
- European clubs looking for experienced coaches could see Clarke as a valuable asset.
With the constant pressure of international football and the long gaps between competitive fixtures, Clarke may prefer the day-to-day involvement of club management.
4. Scotland’s Future Squad Transition
By 2026, Scotland will face a major generational shift, and Clarke may not want to oversee the challenging transition period.
- Veteran players like Andy Robertson, John McGinn, and Scott McTominay will be approaching their 30s, and new talent must step up.
- The lack of a proven goal-scoring striker remains a concern, making sustained success difficult.
- Younger players such as Billy Gilmour and Aaron Hickey must evolve into leaders, and Clarke may feel it’s the right time for a fresh approach.
With the national team potentially needing a rebuilding phase, Clarke may believe a new manager should be the one to guide the next generation.
5. The Pressure of Expectations and Fan Demands
While Clarke is widely respected, the expectations for Scotland’s national team have increased significantly. With back-to-back European qualifications, fans will now demand consistent World Cup appearances and deep tournament runs.
- Failure to qualify for the 2026 World Cup would invite immense criticism, potentially forcing Clarke to step down.
- Even if they qualify, a poor tournament performance could lead to backlash, making his exit more likely.
- Scottish fans and media are notoriously passionate, and prolonged struggles could make Clarke’s position untenable.
Having brought Scotland back to international relevance, Clarke may want to leave before expectations become impossible to meet.
Who Could Replace Clarke After 2026?
If Clarke steps down after the World Cup, Scotland will need a strong successor to continue his work. Potential candidates include:
1. John Kennedy (Celtic Assistant Coach)
- Highly rated within Scottish football circles.
- Experience at Celtic and Scotland’s backroom staff.
2. Malky Mackay (Former Cardiff City Manager)
- Experienced manager with knowledge of Scottish football.
- Could bring a structured approach to the national team.
3. Shaun Maloney (Wigan Athletic Manager)
- A former Scotland international with modern coaching tactics.
- Might appeal to younger players transitioning into the squad.
If Clarke does step down, Scotland will need to make a smart appointment to build upon his foundation.
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Conclusion
Steve Clarke’s potential departure after the 2026 World Cup marks the end of an era for Scottish football. While his achievements have restored national pride, the reality is that football moves fast, and change is inevitable.
Whether Clarke stays or leaves, his legacy as one of Scotland’s greatest modern managers is already secured. For now, his focus remains on leading Scotland to the 2026 World Cup, but fans must brace themselves for what comes next.
Stay tuned for more updates on Steve Clarke’s future and Scotland’s road to 2026!
