Scotland's World Cup Exit Leaves Steve Clarke's Future in Question

Scotland's campaign at the 2026 World Cup has concluded with a group-stage exit, prompting scrutiny of head coach Steve Clarke's performance and the team's below-par displays.

Former Scotland international Willie Miller, who participated in the 1982 and 1986 World Cups, described the team's performances across the three games as "definitely below-par." He noted a significant drop in intensity compared to the qualifying match against Denmark, which Scotland won 4-2. Miller also pointed to the "lack of a top-class striker as a major issue" and expressed "uncertainty about the logic of a few selections."

Despite these criticisms, Miller acknowledged Clarke's success in guiding Scotland to the tournament, stating, "He got us there and that's what the Scotland manager's job is." He also highlighted the "real togetherness in the squad" that Clarke has fostered, a quality he noted was not always present in previous teams. Clarke, with 81 matches under his belt, is Scotland's longest-serving manager. The Scottish Football Association has provided "emphatic" support for Clarke, aided by the financial boost from participating in three of the last four major finals. Looking ahead, Scotland is set to co-host Euro 2028, making qualification highly probable.

James McFadden, a former striker for Scotland, echoed concerns about the team's defensive efforts, particularly in the opening matches. "The defending was certainly below the standard we're used to and the errors were costly," McFadden said. He felt the players "could have shown more" and "could have done better against Morocco in terms of having a go." McFadden also mentioned external factors, noting that "a lot of people think we should have had two penalties and a red card in that game, which is nothing to do with the manager and players." He characterized the goals conceded against Brazil as "two gifts" to the opposition.

Miller concluded that "I'm sure he can go again over the next few years if he wants to" and that "the new contract was a positive step. I think it was the right thing to do."