Graham Potter Open to Coaching Swedish National Football Team After Tomasson's Dismissal

Former manager Graham Potter expresses readiness to lead Sweden's national football team following Jon Dahl Tomasson's recent sacking, with the Swedish Football Association beginning a formal search for a new coach.

    Key details

  • • Graham Potter is open to becoming Sweden's next national football team head coach.
  • • Jon Dahl Tomasson was dismissed following poor World Cup qualifier results.
  • • Potter has strong ties to Sweden, having coached Östersunds FK and has family connections.
  • • Swedish Football Association has initiated the recruitment process for a new coach.
  • • SVT expert Jonas Eriksson described Potter as a dream candidate for the job.

Graham Potter, the 50-year-old former Premier League manager and ex-coach of Östersunds FK, has expressed strong interest in becoming the next head coach of the Swedish national football team. This announcement comes following the dismissal of Jon Dahl Tomasson, who was relieved of his duties after Sweden earned just one point in four matches during the World Cup qualifiers. Potter, who is currently in Sweden and between jobs after leaving West Ham earlier this season, told Fotbollskanalen, "It would be fantastic" to take on the role.

Potter has deep ties to Swedish football, having previously led Östersunds from the second division to the top flight, winning the Swedish Cup and competing in the Europa League. He also has a personal connection through his children, who were born in Sweden. Potter emphasized his love for the country and the football culture, expressing openness to opportunities where he feels he can make a meaningful impact. He also stated financial considerations are not a priority, as he feels secure in his career.

The Swedish Football Association (SvFF), following Tomasson's dismissal after a loss to Kosovo, has begun the process of recruiting a new head coach. Simon Åström, chairman of the SvFF, welcomed Potter's interest as encouraging, acknowledging the importance of respected coaches wanting to lead the national team. While the SvFF has not officially confirmed any candidates yet, Åström confirmed a shortlist of names is being considered. SVT sports expert Jonas Eriksson characterized Potter as a "dream candidate" and urged the association to directly contact him.

Potter's reputation as a respected leader who has revitalized Swedish football at club level, combined with his local connections and current availability, make him a prominent contender for the position. The coming weeks are expected to be decisive as SvFF continues their search for the next national coach to guide Sweden forward after a disappointing World Cup qualifying campaign.

Stay on top of the news that matters

Our free newsletters deliver the most important news stories straight to your inbox.