Steve Clarke Seeks Clarity on Scotland Coaching Future Before USA World Cup

Steve Clarke, 62, says he is willing to remain as Scotland head coach if a clear offer arrives. He wants clarity on his Scotland coaching future ahead of the USA World Cup.

Clarke took charge in May 2019. He has led Scotland to three tournaments from four. Scotland sealed World Cup qualification last year, reaching their first finals since 1998. Clarke will be out of contract after the tournament in the United States.

Discussions with the Scottish FA

Clarke has held only brief, informal talks with Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell. He says those early conversations were not concrete. Clarke expects the association to outline their long-term vision before any decision.

He previously estimated a 25 per cent chance of staying, and a 75 per cent chance of leaving. He now describes the situation as roughly 50-50. The key issue is whether the SFA see him as the coach to progress the squad.

Club options and timing

Clarke has not ruled out a return to club management. He is waiting to see if any clubs make approaches before the season ends. To date, no formal offers have been put to him from clubs or the SFA.

He would prefer to have his future settled before departing for the World Cup. That would allow interested clubs to plan for pre-season and the next campaign.

Record and objectives

Clarke points to qualifying for three tournaments in four attempts. He says he wants to achieve more at major finals. Any assessment of his role will consider tournament performance and future qualification prospects.

Clarke previously managed Kilmarnock, Reading and West Brom. He says he will wait to see the SFA’s proposal before making a final decision.

Scotland at the USA World Cup — Group C

Clarke told Filmogaz.com he wants to see the SFA’s plan for the next cycle. He added that any tournament improvements can be addressed on the pitch in the United States.