Steve Clarke quits as Scotland head coach after The Tartan Army exit World Cup | OneFootball

Steve Clarke has decided to step down as Scotland head coach, with his exit announced after their World Cup elimination on Saturday night.

The 62-year-old ends a seven-year reign in which he led Scotland to their first men’s World Cup in 28 years, in addition to back-to-back European Championship qualifications.

Scotland finished third in Group C but were not among the top eight third-placed teams to progress to the knockout rounds. They faced Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in the group.

“The country’s most successful national coach has called time on his seven years in charge following confirmation of Scotland’s exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup,” the Scottish FA said in a statement.

In May, Clarke signed a new contract to remain in charge until the 2030 World Cup and was also set to lead Scotland at Euro 2028, which will be co-hosted by Britain and Ireland.

“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,” Clarke 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.”

This tournament appeared to offer Scotland their best chance to progress beyond the group stage for the first time, with the expansion to 48 teams introducing a Round of 32 and doubling the number of knockout places. But they were unable to capitalise.

“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,” Scottish FA Chief Executive Ian Maxwell said.

“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.”

Scotland’s Tartan Army lit up the tournament in the United States, Canada and Mexico, drawing praise from Maxwell.

“The many thousands who have travelled to the United States to celebrate the return to a World Cup – making a significant financial commitment to do so – have once again shown themselves to be exceptional ambassadors for our country and our national game,” Maxwell added.