Steve Clarke pens heartfelt letter to fans as he resigns as Scotland manager following World Cup elimination

Steve Clarke has resigned as Scotland manager following the nation's elimination from the 2026 World Cup, which was confirmed following Croatia’s victory over Ghana.

Scotland endured a tough World Cup campaign; despite starting with a 1-0 victory over Haiti, they would suffer defeats to Morocco and Brazil.

Clarke’s men finished third in their group and had to wait for several days to find out their fate, but at the end of play in Group L, they had discovered they had been eliminated.

Minutes after the final whistle in Philadelphia, the announcement came that Clarke had stepped down as Scotland manager.

In a heartfelt message to the fans, he said: “The most emotional part of this goodbye is for my players, without whom we wouldn't have had any of the memories that we've accumulated from 2019 until now.

“They deserve all the praise and adulation that they receive, and it was truly an honour to be called their Gaffer.

"Thanks for having me, and good luck to my successor.”

Scotland World Cup

Scotland appointed Clarke to this role seven years ago, and under his tenure the nation experienced relative success as they qualified for their first World Cup in 28 years and featured in two European Championships.

This success had seen the former West Brom manager handed a four-year extension only a month ago; however, it has quickly unravelled for him in North America.

Fans were critical of his post-match interview following Scotland’s defeat to Brazil and the decisions he made throughout the competition, which has led to the nation’s elimination.

Scottish FA chief executive Ian Maxwell said: “While we are all disappointed to have exited the World Cup at the group stage, we must not lose sight of the undeniable progress made during Steve's seven years in charge.

“From starting as a pot four team in 2019 to topping our World Cup qualifying group, he has more than delivered on the remit to take Scotland back to a major tournament.

"We thank Steve for his record-breaking contribution and know that when the disappointment of World Cup elimination subsides, the Scotland supporters will be thankful for the memories of marching with pride at major tournaments once again."