Steve Clarke has stepped down from his role as Scotland manager after his team’s exit from the World Cup was confirmed on Saturday. 

Scotland were dumped out of the competition following Croatia’s victory over Ghana, with Clarke’s departure announced shortly afterwards. 

The 62-year-old had only signed a new four-year deal a month ago and leaves as Scotland’s longest-serving manager in terms of the number of games managed. 

Clarke was appointed in 2019 and took charge of a side that had not reached a major international tournament since the 1998 World Cup. 

During his time at the helm, Clarke led Scotland to consecutive appearances at the European Championships while also ending the nation’s 28-year wait for World Cup football. 

Scotland’s campaign in North America began with a 1-0 victory over Haiti, their fifth triumph at the World Cup and their first since a 2-1 win over Sweden in 1990. 

They were then beaten by Morocco but were still in a good position to reach the knockout stages as one of the best third-placed teams, but an error-strewn display in a 3-0 defeat to Brazil all but ended their hopes of advancing to the next round. 

“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.”

Scotland Men’s Head Coach Steve Clarke has stepped down from his role.

Our most successful National Team Head Coach has called time on his seven years in charge following our participation at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

— Scotland National Team (@ScotlandNT) June 27, 2026

Clarke took charge of 81 matches during his time in charge of Scotland, winning 36 of those (D16 L29), averaging a win percentage of 44.4%.

“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.”