Next Scotland Manager Odds: Four Candidates Who Could Replace Under-Fire Steve Clarke
Steve Clarke is the name dominating Scottish football's coaching debate this summer, with speculation over his future as Scotland manager intensifying after a disappointing 2026 World Cup campaign, and next scotland manager odds are already beginning to appear.
Scotland's tournament ended with a 1-0 win over Haiti followed by defeats to Morocco and a 3-0 loss to Brazil in Miami, leaving Clarke's side third in Group C, making it highly unlikely that they will prgoress as one of the best third placed teams.
It is the third straight major tournament exit at the group stage under Clarke, and his post match comments about needing to "go away and have a little think" have only added to the uncertainty around his position.
Despite the scrutiny, the situation is not straightforward. Clarke signed a contract extension taking him through to 2030, covering Euro 2028, and there has been no formal indication from the SFA of any change.
However, the reaction has been strong, with pundits openly questioning whether his time in charge has reached its natural end after another early tournament exit.
At Free Bets, we look at the leading contenders and assess who could step in if change does come.
Next Scotland Manager Odds
With speculation building, attention turns to who could succeed Clarke.
Below we assess the most likely outcomes in the betting market.
| Candidate | Next Scotland Manager Odds |
| David Moyes | 5/2 |
| Steven Naismith | 4/1 |
| Ange Postecoglou | 5/1 |
| Kieran McKenna | 6/1 |
Odds are implied probabilities based on current transfer reporting - no current markets are available at UKÂ betting sites.
David Moyes
For all the bigger international names being linked, the standout Scottish candidate remains the clear frontrunner.
The 63-year-old returned to Everton in January 2025 on a contract running through to the end of 2026 27, but he is currently the only outright Scot managing at the top level in English football and was also a Scotland youth international captain.
Speaking on talkSPORT, Moyes described the Scotland job as a really good role and praised Steve Clarke's work, without committing either way.
He has previously admitted he would be open to managing Scotland at some point in his career, and his experience and authority would make him a natural fit for the role.
The question is timing, with Moyes appearing settled at Goodison Park, where he has spoken positively about extending his stay, saying he absolutely loves it there.
He has never managed internationally, which is the only real gap in an otherwise extensive CV that includes Preston, Manchester United and West Ham.
Any move would likely depend on Everton being willing to release him or Moyes deciding that taking charge of his country is the right final challenge.
Steven Naismith
This is the continuity option that would keep the SFA firmly in familiar territory.
Naismith was appointed Scotland assistant manager in August 2025, replacing John Carver after his move to Lechia Gdansk, with Clarke describing him as bringing a complementary skill set.
The case for the 51-cap former Scotland international is straightforward: he is already in the camp, understands the squad, and communicates well within the setup.
However, there are clear doubts.
His only senior club role at Hearts ended in dismissal in September 2024, and he was part of Clarke's backroom staff during a disappointing World Cup campaign that has triggered the current debate.
It would not be a bold appointment, but it would be a quick and low-risk solution that often appeals to the SFA in transitional moments.
Ange Postecoglou
This is the romantic choice that excites supporters, even if it is one of the more complicated deals to make happen.
Postecoglou has been out of work since leaving Nottingham Forest in October 2025 after a short spell that ended following a heavy defeat to Chelsea.
Six months earlier, he had left Tottenham shortly after leading them to the Europa League title.
His connection to Scottish football is strong, having managed Celtic from 2021 to 2023, during which he won five domestic trophies.
He also has a clear identity and style of play that would appeal to fans and players alike.
However, recent Premier League setbacks have impacted his standing, and he has also been linked with a possible Celtic return, although that option has cooled.
He remains available, which ensures he stays part of the conversation.
Kieran McKenna
The wildcard is the highly rated young coach who recently left Ipswich Town after an impressive spell in charge.
McKenna stepped down in June 2025 after guiding the club through multiple promotions, citing a need for a break and time with family.
At 40 years old, he is regarded as one of the most promising coaches in British football and is highly sought after after his work at Ipswich.
The case for him is clear in terms of ability, with an impressive track record of promotions and a modern tactical approach that has attracted widespread praise.
The challenge is profile and direction.
He has no direct Scottish link and is widely expected to target a Premier League role rather than an international job at this stage of his career.
It would be a surprise appointment, but in an open market, surprise candidates always remain in play.
