NafisaFor years, Steve Clarke enjoyed the backing of many Scotland supporters for ending the nation’s long wait to return to major tournaments. However, as expectations rose and results at those tournaments failed to match the optimism, the pressure surrounding his position steadily intensified.
The disappointment of another early World Cup exit ultimately proved to be the final chapter of Clarke’s time in charge, with the Scottish FA confirming his resignation shortly after Scotland’s elimination was officially sealed.
As emotions continue to settle across the country, attention has naturally shifted back toward some of the loudest critics who repeatedly questioned whether Clarke was the right man to lead Scotland forward.
Throughout his tenure, debate around Clarke rarely disappeared completely. While many praised him for restoring belief in the national side, others consistently argued that Scotland had reached a ceiling under his leadership and needed fresh ideas to take the next step.
Following his departure, three familiar names have once again found themselves at the centre of that discussion.
Former Scotland international Craig Burley was arguably Clarke’s most outspoken critic over recent years.
After Scotland’s defeat to Brazil at the World Cup, Burley insisted Scotland “don’t really deserve” to progress and described the national team as “second rate,” arguing that performances lacked the quality and ambition required to compete consistently on the biggest stage.
Burley had repeatedly questioned Scotland’s direction under Clarke long before the resignation, making him one of the strongest voices calling for change.
Former Scotland striker Mark McGhee also delivered a brutal assessment after the World Cup exit.
Although he stopped short of directly demanding Clarke’s dismissal beforehand, McGhee described Scotland’s displays as “abject” and “diabolical,” adding that Clarke’s position had become “untenable” because the relationship with supporters had deteriorated significantly.
Those comments quickly gathered attention as many supporters debated whether Scotland needed a completely new direction.
Meanwhile, Norway manager Ståle Solbakken added further scrutiny during the World Cup build-up by criticising Scotland’s preparations and branding the cancellation of a planned behind-closed-doors friendly as “unprofessional.”
While Solbakken was commenting on Scotland’s preparations rather than directly calling for Clarke’s removal, his remarks added to the growing pressure surrounding the national team’s management.
Despite the criticism, Clarke’s departure has not been universally celebrated.
Former Rangers striker Kris Boyd strongly defended the outgoing boss, describing much of the criticism directed at Clarke as “an absolute disgrace.”
Scotland captain Andy Robertson also paid tribute, praising Clarke for transforming the national team after years away from major tournaments and restoring belief across Scottish football.
Clarke himself chose not to respond to any of his critics during his farewell message.
Instead, he focused entirely on thanking his players and supporters.
“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,” Clarke said.
“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.”
Whether history remembers Steve Clarke for Scotland’s tournament disappointments or for ending the country’s long absence from major competitions will continue to divide opinion.
What is certain, however, is that his resignation has once again placed both his achievements—and the critics who consistently challenged him—firmly back under the spotlight.
Nafisa
