Steve Clarke has signed a contract extension to remain as manager of Scotland until 2026.
Clarke first took charge in May 2019 and led Scotland to UEFA Euro 2020 where they exited in the Group Stage, having initially qualified via the Qualfying Play-Offs.
He has since gone on to lead the Tartan Army to promotion to League A within UEFA Nations League, after missing out on a World Cup spot following their Qualifying Play-Off semi-final loss to Ukraine who too failed to qualify following defeat to Wales in the Play-Off Final.
Clarke will now lead Scotland in their UEFA Euro 2024 qualifying campaign and likewise for 2026 FIFA World Cup, plus in League A of 2024-25 UEFA Nations League.
Speaking about his decision to commit his future to Scotland, Clarke said that he is “proud” to be entrusted to lead the Tartan Army across the next two tournaments, although he acknowledged that the trust “is a testament to the squad of players who have been central to our improvement.”
Clarke though iterated that his priority is ensuring the team make “a positive start” on their UEFA Euro opening qualifying match against Cyprus tomorrow (25 March).
Reflecting upon the evolution of his squad across his tenure, Clarke added: “When we named our squad for the double-header, I spoke with my coaches about how the quality and depth of the squad has evolved in those four years.
“We now have an experienced core who have been constants throughout, but we have also added quality and competition in every area of the team.”
Clarke though knows that keeping “the fans and the nations engaged and entertained” is key to continuing their development and qualifying for major tournaments.
Scottish FA Chief Executive, Ian Maxwell meanwhile stated that extending Clarke’s contract “has been one of the easiest decisions and conversations during my time as Chief Executive.”
Maxwell proceeded to pay tribute to what Clarke has achieved so far in how he “united the nation” as he added that renewing their commitment towards Clarke was “important” for “continuity” of their progress in the past four years.