Alison Conroy

Rafa Benitez signaled openness to becoming Scotland's next head coach as the Scottish FA develops a shortlist to replace Steve Clarke following the team's World Cup exit. With Scotland beginning their Nations League campaign in September, the SFA aims to appoint a successor soon, considering permanent or interim options such as assistant Steven Naismith. Potential candidates include Roberto Martinez, David Moyes and others. The incoming coach will face squad evolution challenges, with several senior players aging and limited emerging talent, underscoring calls for long-term development within Scottish football.

Rafa Benitez signalled openness to becoming Scotland’s next head coach as the Scottish FA compiles a shortlist following Steve Clarke’s departure after the World Cup exit. Benitez expressed interest in international management, highlighting the unique motivation and challenges of national teams. Roberto Martinez, David Moyes, John McGlynn, Alex Neil and Steven Naismith are among early contenders. The SFA aims to appoint a successor soon, with Nations League fixtures beginning in September. Any new coach faces both immediate competitive demands and the longer-term task of refreshing an ageing squad while developing young talent.