NafisaInternational football has entered another period of change following the conclusion of the 2026 World Cup, with several nations already beginning the search for new leadership ahead of the next major tournaments.
Managers are constantly being linked with vacancies across Europe, and experienced names are once again attracting plenty of attention as national associations consider their next appointments.
For countries hoping to build on recent progress, selecting the right head coach could define the coming years. Experience at the highest level, the ability to manage elite players and success in major competitions are all qualities that governing bodies tend to prioritise when drawing up their shortlist.
Scotland now find themselves in exactly that position after the end of their World Cup campaign, with speculation continuing to intensify over who could replace Steve Clarke in the Hampden dugout.
One experienced manager who has now addressed the possibility of taking charge is former Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez, who admits he would welcome the challenge.
Benitez says he is “open” to the prospect of becoming Scotland’s next manager.
The Spaniard revealed he followed Scotland closely throughout the World Cup and believes the national side largely performed to the level that could reasonably have been expected, despite once again falling short of reaching the knockout rounds.
A narrow 1-0 victory over Haiti was followed by defeats against Morocco and Brazil, leaving Steve Clarke’s side unable to qualify as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams.
Clarke stepped down after Scotland’s elimination was confirmed, leaving the Scottish Football Association searching for a successor only weeks after offering the 62-year-old a lucrative new four-year contract.
Benitez has been without a managerial role since departing Greek side Panathinaikos at the conclusion of last season.
Asked about the possibility of taking over the Scotland job before the upcoming Nations League fixtures and Euro 2028 qualifying campaign, the former Real Madrid, Liverpool and Chelsea manager refused to dismiss the opportunity.
«“I was watching Scotland and I know some of the players,” he told talkSPORT. “I think you did well to go there to the World Cup. They achieved what they could achieve. I don’t think that they could have achieved any more.»
«“But it’s always a challenge. So I am open to the challenge. I’m open to international football, to national teams, because I think that you can do a different kind of job.”»
When pressed further on whether he would specifically consider the Scotland role, Benitez replied:
«“No, no, it wasn’t a no.”»
While Benitez has now put his name into the conversation, the race to become Scotland’s next manager remains wide open.
Current Everton boss Davie Moyes continues to lead the bookmakers’ market, while Falkirk manager John McGlynn, Millwall boss Alex Neil, current Scotland coach Steven Naismith, and former Belgium and Portugal head coach Roberto Martinez have also been linked with the vacancy.
With preparations for Euro 2028 qualification fast approaching, the SFA are expected to intensify their search in the coming weeks as they look to appoint the man tasked with leading Scotland into the next chapter.
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