The Scottish Football Association isn’t waiting around. With Steve Clarke entering the final stretch of his contract, SFA chief Ian Maxwell has admitted they’re already scanning for a potential new boss — just in case.
Clarke has brought Scotland back into the spotlight, leading the national side to two consecutive Euros. But his future remains uncertain, and behind the scenes, the wheels are turning.
Clarke’s Contract Clock Is Ticking
Steve Clarke signed on the dotted line in May 2019. It wasn’t just any appointment — it was one loaded with expectations and a touch of desperation. Scotland had missed major tournaments for over two decades.
Fast forward five years, and Clarke’s managed what many before him couldn’t: back-to-back qualifications for the European Championship. Not bad, right? But there’s a catch.
The 61-year-old has already hinted he’s likely to step down once his current deal ends in summer 2026. In March, Clarke pegged the chances of renewal at just 25%.
And that’s got the SFA on high alert.
“Always Scanning”: Maxwell Doesn’t Rule Out Anything
SFA chief executive Ian Maxwell knows better than to wait until the last minute. Speaking to BBC Scotland, he didn’t mince words.
“Succession planning, I always need to have an eye on what’s about,” he said. “Managers can leave at any point for a variety of different reasons.”
The phrasing was casual, but the message behind it was crystal clear. Maxwell isn’t just talking hypotheticals. He’s preparing for a handover — whether it happens next year or sooner.
Maxwell has been here before. He was in charge when Clarke was first hired. The national team was floundering back then. The decision to bring in a steady hand with club experience was calculated — and it paid off.
Clarke’s Legacy: Results Speak Louder Than Style
Clarke’s approach hasn’t been flashy. Some critics have even called it dull. But he’s delivered where it matters: results.
Let’s look at what’s changed under his leadership:
-
Euro 2020 qualification: First major tournament since 1998
-
Euro 2024 qualification: Secured with two games to spare
-
Competitive performances in Nations League and World Cup qualifying
-
Reputation building: Scotland no longer seen as pushovers
His style? Pragmatic. Sometimes cagey. But it’s worked, especially against stronger opposition. He built a core around Andy Robertson, Scott McTominay, John McGinn, and Kieran Tierney. He revived confidence that had gone missing for far too long.
What Could Influence Clarke’s Exit?
While Clarke hasn’t made a definitive decision, his comments point toward a natural end. He’s been in the game for decades and might be looking to bow out while the team’s still flying high.
That said, a few things could twist the story:
-
Strong showing at Euro 2024 — If Scotland shock Europe, would he really walk away?
-
A golden ticket to the 2026 World Cup — Scotland haven’t been there since France ’98.
-
Personal factors — Age, energy, and his next challenge. Clarke doesn’t talk much about it, but he’s hinted at being ready for something slower.
There’s also the club scene. Clarke still carries weight in England and could get offers, especially from Championship sides looking for experience and a safe pair of hands.
Who’s On The Radar? Early Guesswork Begins
Maxwell didn’t drop any names, of course. But that hasn’t stopped speculation.
Here’s a quick look at some names being casually floated:
| Coach | Current Role | Why They’re Mentioned |
|---|---|---|
| Derek McInnes | Kilmarnock boss | Strong club record, Scottish credentials |
| Malky Mackay | Former SFA performance director | Familiar face, experience at multiple levels |
| Stephen Robinson | St Mirren manager | Overachieving with limited resources |
| Jack Ross | Free agent | Has managed Hibs, Sunderland — knows pressure |
| Alex Neil | Stoke City | Championship experience, tactical flexibility |
None of these names are confirmed. But if Clarke does leave, don’t expect a flashy foreign appointment. Maxwell has shown a preference for steady, domestic options.
Fans Split: Change or Continuity?
You’ll hear it in the pubs, on phone-ins, and all over Scottish Twitter — everyone’s got an opinion.
Some fans argue Clarke’s system has hit its ceiling. They want someone bolder, maybe even younger, to make the most of a talented generation.
Others? They’re not ready to risk it. Clarke has stabilised a team that used to crumble under pressure. The results speak for themselves.
And then there’s the unknown. Change always brings a bit of fear. What if the next coach doesn’t gel with the players? What if momentum stalls?
That’s why Maxwell’s “scanning” isn’t just protocol — it’s survival prep.
Big Year Ahead, With Bigger Decisions Waiting
Euro 2024 is around the corner, and Scotland are dreaming again. The draw wasn’t too kind, but that’s nothing new. If Clarke can guide them out of the group, it’ll be historic.
But behind the scenes, something bigger is brewing. The search for what comes after. The worry isn’t just about replacing a coach — it’s about replacing a figure who’s redefined Scotland’s national team image.
For now, Clarke’s still in charge, prepping his squad and playing down the future talk. But make no mistake — the SFA already has one eye on what’s next.
