6 National Team Coaches Lose Jobs After 2026 World Cup Exits

Six national team coaches have lost their jobs following the 2026 FIFA World Cup, according to PREMIUM TIMES. Ronald Koeman resigned after the Netherlands’ penalty shootout defeat to Morocco.

Steve Clarke stepped down after Scotland’s group-stage exit, despite having signed a contract renewal months earlier. Miroslav Koubek resigned after Czechia finished bottom of Group A without a win.

Hong Myung-bo quit after South Korea’s Round of 32 loss to Brazil. Sabri Lamouchi was dismissed after Tunisia’s 5-1 opening defeat to Sweden, just five games into his tenure. Sebastián Beccacece resigned after Ecuador’s Round of 32 exit to Mexico, stating his contract ended with the tournament. Their exits illustrate the World Cup’s unforgiving nature, where years of preparation can unravel in 90 minutes.

Key Points:

International football rewards results instantly; there is no patience for long-term building
Even successful managers like Clarke saw their legacies overshadowed by one poor tournament
Penalty shootouts and single bad performances can cost coaches their jobs
Federations are quick to act when expectations are not met
The World Cup remains the ultimate test of managerial survival

The six nations will now search for new coaches as the next World Cup cycle begins. The tournament’s managerial casualties highlight the high-stakes nature of international football.

Sources: Goal, FIFA World Cup 2026