Postecoglou in frame to replace Steve Clarke as Scotland manager | OneFootball

Scotland are searching for a new manager after Steve Clarke stepped down following the national team’s World Cup group-stage exit.

The 62-year-old has brought an end to his seven-year spell in charge after Scotland’s hopes of reaching the knockout rounds were ended in Group C.

The Scottish FA is not expected to rush the appointment of Clarke’s successor ahead of September’s Nations League campaign, but experienced Everton boss David Moyes has already been linked with the vacancy. Former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou, assistant coach Steven Naismith, ex-Denmark boss Kasper Hjulmand and former Rangers caretaker Barry Ferguson have also been mentioned as potential candidates.

Scotland won three points from matches against Brazil, Morocco and Haiti, but finished third in the group and their slim qualification hopes ended before the final round of fixtures had even kicked off.

Clarke leaves having transformed the fortunes of the national side, ending Scotland’s long wait for major tournament football and restoring belief after years in the international wilderness.

“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.”

Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell paid tribute to Clarke’s achievements despite the disappointment of Scotland’s early World Cup exit.

“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,” 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.

“Finally, on behalf of the board of the Scottish FA I would like to make special mention to our incredible supporters.

“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.”

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Clarke departs with a record of 38 wins, 14 draws and 29 defeats from 81 matches, leaving behind one of the most successful periods in Scotland’s modern history.

After taking charge in 2019, he guided Scotland to Euro 2020, ending a 23-year absence from major tournaments, before leading them back to the European Championship again in 2024 and securing the nation’s first World Cup qualification since France ’98.

He also oversaw promotion from League C to League A of the UEFA Nations League, although tournament success proved elusive, with victory over Haiti this month standing as Scotland’s only win across three major finals appearances under his leadership.