Graham Potter Nears Appointment as Swedish National Football Coach

Graham Potter is on the verge of becoming Sweden's new national football coach, with verbal agreements in place and contract finalization expected soon.

    Key details

  • • Graham Potter has a verbal agreement to become Sweden's new head coach.
  • • The Swedish Football Association aims to finalize the contract within the week.
  • • Potter's contract is likely until March focusing on World Cup preparations.
  • • Potter expressed enthusiasm for coaching the Swedish national team.
  • • Former national goalkeeper Robin Olsen declined to comment on the team after previous coach's departure.

The Swedish Football Association (SvFF) is on the verge of appointing Graham Potter as the new head coach of the Swedish men's national football team. As of October 18, 2025, Potter has reached a verbal agreement with SvFF, and the association aims to finalize the contract within the week, barring unforeseen issues. The expected contract will last until March, focusing mainly on preparing the team for the upcoming FIFA World Cup next summer.

Potter, 50, is currently between jobs following his departure from the Premier League, where he managed clubs such as Brighton, Chelsea, and West Ham. His coaching career began in Sweden with Östersunds FK, after which he moved abroad. The urgency to finalize the appointment follows an impending national team gathering scheduled for mid-November, ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers against Switzerland and Slovenia.

Potter expressed enthusiasm for the role, stating, “I am actually in Sweden right now, in my house in Sweden. I am between jobs and just left the Premier League. I am open to anything where I feel I can help. The job as head coach for the Swedish national team is fantastic.” SVT football expert Jonas Eriksson described Potter as a “dream candidate,” highlighting his respected leadership, admiration from players, and deep affection for Swedish football culture.

Meanwhile, Malmö FF goalkeeper Robin Olsen has chosen not to comment on the national team dynamics following former coach Jon Dahl Tomasson’s departure. Olsen, who previously criticized Tomasson, redirected questions to focus on club matters, with speculation continuing about Potter’s impending appointment.

The SvFF's swift negotiations, including a secret trip to Potter’s home in Jämtland, underscore the association's commitment to securing him quickly enough to prepare the squad effectively for its forthcoming challenges on the international stage.

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