Sweden appoints Graham Potter as new head coach
Graham Potter has been formally appointed as the new head coach of Sweden’s national football team, assuming the role on a short-term basis. His immediate objective is to revitalize Sweden’s struggling World Cup qualifying campaign.
Potter’s contract encompasses the critical November qualifiers against Switzerland and Slovenia, with the possibility of extension should Sweden advance to the playoffs or secure qualification for the 2026 World Cup. Sweden currently faces a challenging qualification journey, having garnered only one point from their first four group-stage matches, leading to the dismissal of former manager Jon Dahl Tomasson.
Nevertheless, Sweden retains hope of participating in the World Cup, courtesy of their impressive performance as group winners in the 2024-25 Nations League, which affords them a playoff opportunity in March.
Potter brings recent Premier League experience, having been dismissed by West Ham in September following a tumultuous tenure. Despite his brief stint, Potter expressed profound motivation and respect for his new role, highlighting Sweden’s talented players who compete in top global leagues. His goal is to create optimal conditions, ensuring the team delivers peak performances to secure World Cup qualification next summer.
His first games in charge will be critical, with the away fixture against Switzerland followed by a home match against Slovenia in November. The Swedish Football Association and football director Kim Kallstrom have expressed confidence in Potter’s tactical skills and leadership, hoping he will unify the squad and maximize their collective strengths.
This appointment marks a swift return to management for Potter and a pivotal moment for Sweden’s hopes to reach the World Cup. The nation awaits to see if his guidance can reverse their fortunes and lead them to football’s biggest stage in 2026.
