Surprise pick announced as new Scotland manager, taking over from Steve Clarke
A surprise candidate has come forward as the favorite to take over from Steve Clarke as Scotland’s next manager, now ahead of David Moyes, Alex Neil, and Martin O’Neill in the race. Last week, Clarke stepped down after a disappointing World Cup for Scotland.
The team started strong with a 1-0 win against Haiti in their first Group C match in Boston, but losses to Morocco and Brazil meant they had to rely on other results to advance. Unfortunately, they didn’t make it past the group stage, finishing outside the top third-placed teams.
Soon after, the Scottish FA confirmed Clarke’s departure. Clarke shared a heartfelt message: “The toughest part of saying goodbye is my players, who made all the memories from 2019 until now possible. They deserve all the credit, and it’s been an honor to be their manager. Thanks for everything, and best wishes to whoever comes next.”
So, who might take over? Ange Postecoglou is now the 5/2 favorite. He had a great two years at Celtic, winning two Scottish Premiership titles, two League Cups, and a Scottish Cup before moving to Tottenham in 2023. Although he’s been out of work since Nottingham Forest let him go last October, bookmakers William Hill have made him the top pick ahead of David Moyes, who was the early favorite.
A William Hill spokesperson said, “With Steve Clarke stepping down after seven years, Ange Postecoglou is the early favorite to replace him. He won five trophies in two years at Celtic and also has experience managing Australia at the 2014 World Cup.” Right behind Postecoglou are Scottish coaches David Moyes and Alex Neil (both 5/1), with Martin O’Neill and Kasper Hjulmand (both 7/1) also in the running.
Since Clarke left, several names have been linked to the job, including Roberto Martinez, expected to step down as Portugal’s manager after this summer’s World Cup. Former Scotland player Pat Nevin thinks Martinez could be an exciting choice.
“Sometimes timing is everything,” Nevin told BBC’s Scottish Football Podcast. “There was a time when David Moyes wasn’t doing well at West Ham—that could’ve been perfect for him to take the job. Lots of people thought he’d be great, but that opportunity’s gone since he’s doing well at Everton now.
“When Roberto Martinez finishes with Portugal, he might be an interesting candidate too. But getting top-level managers to take on Scotland, knowing there might be a few tough losses and a rebuild ahead, is a challenge.”