CLEAR FAVOURITE TO BECOME NEXT SCOTLAND MANAGER EMERGES AFTER STEVE CLARKE’S RESIGNATION
Scottish football has been thrown into uncertainty after Steve Clarke sensationally announced his resignation as Scotland manager in the immediate aftermath of the national team’s heartbreaking exit from the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision came as a huge shock, particularly as Clarke had only recently committed his future to the Scottish FA, but the disappointment of failing to reach the knockout stages proved to be the final chapter of his seven-year reign.
While his tenure will forever be remembered for ending Scotland’s 28-year wait to return to the World Cup and leading the nation to multiple major tournaments, the painful group-stage elimination sparked intense scrutiny, with Clarke ultimately deciding the time was right to step aside.
Now, attention has shifted almost immediately to the race to replace one of the most successful managers in Scotland’s modern history. Although the Scottish FA has yet to announce an official shortlist, bookmakers, pundits and supporters have wasted no time identifying the leading contenders. Experienced Premier League boss David Moyes has quickly emerged as the early favourite, while former Celtic manager Ange Postecoglou has also attracted significant backing following his trophy-laden spell in Glasgow. Elsewhere, current Scotland assistant Steven Naismith, former Denmark boss Kasper Hjulmand, ex-Sunderland manager Alex Neil and Rangers legend Barry Ferguson have all been mentioned as potential candidates as speculation over the next Scotland manager reaches fever pitch.
With Scotland set to begin a new chapter ahead of the upcoming UEFA Nations League campaign and with Euro 2028 on the horizon, the pressure is already mounting on the Scottish FA to make the right appointment. And if the latest odds and fan reaction are anything to go by, one name is beginning to separate himself from the rest as the clear favourite to take charge of the Tartan Army.
David Moyes emerges as early frontrunner
Veteran Scottish coach David Moyes has reportedly become the leading candidate in the race to replace Clarke.
The experienced manager boasts one of the most impressive CVs in British football, having managed Everton, Manchester United, Real Sociedad, Sunderland and West Ham United, where he guided the club to UEFA Europa Conference League glory.
His vast Premier League experience and reputation for building disciplined, competitive teams have convinced many supporters that he could be the ideal man to steer Scotland towards UEFA Euro 2028, which the country will co-host alongside England, Wales, Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Plenty of competition remains
While Moyes has emerged as the early favourite, he is far from the only name under consideration.
Former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou has been heavily discussed by fans thanks to his success in Scottish football before moving on to the Premier League.
Current Scotland assistant Steven Naismith is another candidate who already knows the squad inside out and could provide continuity after working alongside Clarke.
Former Norwich City and Sunderland boss Alex Neil has also been linked, while ex-Denmark manager Kasper Hjulmand has reportedly entered discussions among potential overseas candidates.
Some supporters have even suggested Rangers legend Barry Ferguson and former Scotland international Shaun Maloney as outside options should the Scottish FA decide to look towards a younger generation of coaches.
Clarke leaves after historic spell
Although the World Cup campaign ended in disappointment, Steve Clarke departs as one of Scotland’s most significant managers in modern history.
He ended the nation’s 23-year wait for a major tournament by qualifying for Euro 2020 before also leading Scotland to Euro 2024 and finally ending their 28-year World Cup absence by qualifying for the 2026 tournament.
However, group-stage elimination proved to be the final chapter of his reign, with Clarke choosing to step aside shortly after Scotland’s exit was confirmed.
Fans already making their choice
Social media has exploded with debate over who should take the job.
Many supporters believe Moyes’ experience makes him the obvious appointment.
Others feel Postecoglou’s attacking philosophy could unlock the potential of Scotland’s talented generation featuring Billy Gilmour, Scott McTominay, John McGinn and Lewis Ferguson.
Meanwhile, some fans believe promoting Steven Naismith would ensure continuity while allowing a younger coach to build towards Euro 2028.
Huge decision awaits the Scottish FA
The Scottish FA now faces one of its biggest managerial appointments in years.
With the next UEFA Nations League campaign approaching rapidly and preparations for Euro 2028 already beginning, officials are expected to move quickly in identifying Clarke’s successor.
Whether they turn to the proven experience of David Moyes, the attacking vision of Ange Postecoglou, or opt for a surprise appointment, the next Scotland manager will inherit one of the country’s most talented squads in decades.
One thing is certain—the race has officially begun, and all eyes are now on Hampden Park.
