Former England coach resigns after losing World Cup ticket

Steve McClaren resigned as Jamaica coach after disappointment in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, although the team still has a chance in the intercontinental play-offs.

McClaren was once expected by the Jamaican national team to help the team compete fairly for a ticket to the 2026 World Cup.

On the morning of November 19, coach Steve McClaren, who was appointed as the captain of the Jamaica national football team in July 2024, officially resigned after the team failed to qualify directly for the 2026 World Cup.

The decision was made shortly after Jamaica's 0-0 draw with Curacao in the final round of Group H of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in the CONCACAF region.

Before the final match, Curacao led Group H with 11 points, just one more than Jamaica. Despite having the chance to decide their own fate, the host team Jamaica disappointed with a draw.

The English coach's resignation surprised the entire Jamaican team, as they still have a chance to reach the World Cup through the intercontinental play-offs in March 2026. This is their last chance to win a ticket to the biggest tournament on the planet.

McClaren, a former England player and coach who led the Three Lions, returned to the international stage last year as Jamaica's manager. Under his guidance, the Caribbean team made significant progress, especially when they qualified for the third round of the 2026 World Cup.

In his resignation statement, he shared: “Sometimes the best thing a leader can do is recognize when a new voice, new energy and a different perspective is needed to move the team forward.”

McClaren’s departure was a shock as he was highly regarded by pundits. Although he failed to achieve his immediate goals, his contributions to building the team and improving Jamaica’s morale certainly left a mark.

In addition, this decision makes it more difficult for Jamaica to prepare for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-off round. The Jamaica Football Federation is now urgently looking for a replacement to prepare for the upcoming decisive stage.

Source: https://znews.vn/cuu-hlv-tuyen-anh-tu-chuc-vi-mat-ve-world-cup-post1604064.html