Scottish FA Nears Decision on New Head Coach Ahead of Nations League

The Scottish FA is moving into the final stages of its search for a new head coach, with an appointment expected soon as the post-Steve Clarke era takes shape.

Clarke walked away in the summer, just weeks after signing a new four-year contract in May, his resignation following Scotland’s group-stage exit at the World Cup bringing a seven-year reign to an abrupt end. Stability on paper, gone in a moment.

Now the clock is ticking.

Scotland’s next competitive chapter begins in the Nations League, a four-game block that starts away to Slovenia on 26 September. The new head coach will inherit a squad bruised by a disappointing World Cup but hardened by the journey that got them there. Whoever takes charge will have little time for introductions.

The process is being driven by chief executive Ian Maxwell and Craig Mulholland, the Scottish FA’s chief football officer since May. Between them, they have cast the net wide, speaking to candidates from across the UK and overseas.

Interviews have already been conducted. The field has been narrowed. The SFA is described as being close to a decision, though one key question remains unanswered: will the next Scotland boss be a Scot or a foreign appointment? For now, that detail is being kept tight.

Inside the camp, there is at least one thread of continuity. Steven Naismith, who served as Clarke’s assistant, said last month he expects to remain part of the national team set-up under the new manager. His presence would offer a familiar voice in the dressing room as a new era begins in the dugout.

The World Cup exit closed one story with a thud. The Nations League opener in Slovenia will tell us how quickly Scotland can start writing the next one.