Who Were the Last Nine Scotland National Team Managers?

Scotland football has seen plenty of managerial change since 2004. From Walter Smith’s experienced stewardship to Steve Clarke’s record-breaking tenure, the Tartan Army has been led by nine different men in that time. Below, we break down each of the last nine Scotland national team managers — their appointment dates, tenure lengths, and the moments that defined their time in charge.

1. Steve Clarke (2019–present)

Steve Clarke was appointed Scotland head coach in May 2019, replacing Alex McLeish. What followed is the most successful managerial reign in modern Scottish football history. Clarke guided Scotland to UEFA Euro 2020 (their first Euros in 23 years), UEFA Euro 2024, and crucially, the 2026 FIFA World Cup — ending a 28-year absence from the global stage. In 2026 he signed a new contract through to the 2030 World Cup and holds the record for the most Scotland matches managed, surpassing 76 games. A former Chelsea defender, Clarke had previously managed Kilmarnock and West Bromwich Albion before taking the Scotland job.

2. Alex McLeish (2018–2019; previously 2007)

Alex McLeish returned for a second spell as Scotland manager in February 2018 — a controversial decision given he had previously left for rivals Birmingham City mid-contract. His second tenure lasted just over a year before he departed by mutual consent in May 2019. McLeish is one of the few managers to have held the role twice. A former Aberdeen and Scotland captain, his first brief spell came in 2007 before he moved into club management with Birmingham, Aston Villa and various overseas roles.

3. Malky Mackay (2017, caretaker)

Malky Mackay served as caretaker Scotland manager in 2017 following Gordon Strachan’s resignation. His role was interim and he did not go on to take the position permanently. Mackay had previously managed Cardiff City and Watford at club level, and at the time was serving as the Scottish FA’s performance director.

4. Gordon Strachan (2013–2017)

Gordon Strachan took charge of Scotland in January 2013 and led the team through two World Cup qualifying campaigns. His time in charge produced promising performances but ultimately Scotland fell agonisingly short of qualifying for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia, losing a crucial play-off path. Strachan resigned in October 2017. A legendary Scotland midfielder in his playing days, he had previously managed Celtic, winning four Scottish Premiership titles.

5. Billy Stark (2012, caretaker)

Billy Stark stepped in as caretaker Scotland manager in 2012 following Craig Levein’s sacking. He was not a candidate for the permanent role but provided continuity during the appointment process. Stark was the Scotland Under-21 manager at the time and had previously played and managed at club level in Scotland.

6. Craig Levein (2009–2012)

Craig Levein was appointed Scotland manager in December 2009 and oversaw qualification attempts for UEFA Euro 2012 and the 2014 World Cup. His tenure is perhaps best remembered for the decision to play no recognised striker in a 0-0 draw with Czech Republic in 2010 — a tactical choice that drew significant criticism. He was sacked in November 2012 with Scotland’s qualification hopes fading. At club level, Levein managed Hearts across two separate spells.

7. George Burley (2008–2009)

George Burley was appointed Scotland manager in January 2008 following the end of Walter Smith’s second stint. A former Ipswich Town and Southampton manager, Burley oversaw the 2010 World Cup qualifying campaign. Scotland’s inconsistent results — including a heavy defeat in the Netherlands — led to his dismissal in November 2009 before the campaign concluded. Burley had been a Scotland international himself, winning over 11 caps.

8. Walter Smith (2004–2007)

Walter Smith had two associations with the Scotland job. His first spell came in the 1990s when he served as assistant to Andy Roxburgh and Craig Brown. He returned as manager in December 2004 and oversaw the 2006 World Cup qualifying campaign and the beginning of the Euro 2008 qualifiers. Smith brought stability and experience — he had won numerous trophies with Rangers — before departing in January 2007 to return to Ibrox. He was widely regarded as one of the most respected managers ever to hold the Scotland post.

9. Tommy Burns (2004, caretaker)

Tommy Burns served as caretaker Scotland manager in 2004 following Berti Vogts’ departure. Burns — a beloved figure in Scottish football, having managed Celtic and been part of the national coaching setup — held the role on a temporary basis while the SFA sought a permanent appointment. He later became part of Gordon Strachan’s backroom staff at Celtic and is remembered as one of the most influential figures in Scottish football culture. Burns passed away in May 2008.

For the full history of Scotland national team managers going back further, visit our Scotland National Team Managers all-time list. You can also explore Scotland national team results from 2000 to 2025.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is the current Scotland national team manager?

Steve Clarke is the current Scotland manager. Appointed in May 2019, he signed a new contract in 2026 to lead Scotland through to the 2030 FIFA World Cup. He is Scotland’s longest-serving and most successful modern-era manager.

Who was Scotland manager before Steve Clarke?

Alex McLeish was Scotland manager immediately before Steve Clarke, serving from February 2018 to May 2019.

How many major tournaments has Scotland qualified for under Steve Clarke?

Three: UEFA Euro 2020, UEFA Euro 2024, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup — Scotland’s first men’s World Cup since 1998.

When did Scotland last qualify for a World Cup before 2026?

Scotland’s previous World Cup appearance was at France 1998. Their qualification for the 2026 tournament ended a 28-year absence.

Has Alex McLeish managed Scotland more than once?

Yes. Alex McLeish managed Scotland in 2007 (briefly) and again from 2018 to 2019 — making him one of the few Scotland managers to serve two separate spells.