Scotland: Steve Clarke resigns after World Cup exit
Steve Clarke resigned as head coach following Scotland’s exit from the World Cup.
The Scottish Football Association announced his departure in a statement immediately after Croatia beat Ghana on Saturday, which sealed Scotland’s fate.
BBC Scotland understands players were told on Saturday that Clarke and the team were still at the Charlotte base.
He had signed a new four-year deal just a month ago.
The Scots defeated Haiti 1-0 in their opening Group C match in Boston; same city, where they later lost 1-0 to Morocco, then lost 3-0 to Brazil in Miami.
That left them with very slim chances of qualifying for the last 32 as one of the eight best third-placed teams – but that hope faded on Saturday, three days after Brazil’s defeat.
“The most emotional part of this farewell was for my players, without whom we wouldn’t have had any of the memories we’ve made since 2019,” said Clarke.
“They deserve all the praise and praise they receive and it was truly an honor to be named their gaffer.
“Thank you for having me and good luck to my successor.”
Clarke became Scotland’s head coach seven years ago and the country had not reached a major final since the 1998 World Cup.
Under his management, the Scots reached two European Championships before qualifying for the World Cup this summer.
But despite this qualifying success, Scotland have been unsuccessful in all three tournaments and their victory over Haiti earlier this month was their only win in the finals.
Scotland went into Wednesday’s game against Brazil as one of the best third-placed teams in the competition, but defensive errors undermined that bid.
Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell said: “While we are all disappointed to exit the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve’s seven-year tenure.”
“From starting as the fourth hoops side in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has gone above and beyond to get Scotland back to a major tournament.
“We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination is over, Scotland fans will once again be grateful for the memories of walking proudly through major tournaments.”
