McClaren Takes the Helm as Jamaica’s New National Team Coach After Leaving Manchester United

Steve McClaren, the former England manager, has been appointed head coach of Jamaica's men's national team. The 63-year-old has signed a two-year contract, effective after his departure from Manchester United's backroom staff.

The Jamaica Football Federation announced that McClaren's primary objective is to guide the Reggae Boyz to the 2026 World Cup finals. Jamaica's only World Cup appearance occurred in France 1998, where they were eliminated in the group stage.

Upon his appointment, McClaren expressed that he was "extremely proud and excited" to take on his first managerial role since being sacked by QPR in April 2019. He added, "I had no hesitation in accepting a position that is ideally suited to me at this stage of my career."

McClaren previously served as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant at Manchester United before leaving in 2001 to become head coach of Middlesbrough. During his tenure at Middlesbrough, he won the League Cup in 2004 and led the team to the UEFA Cup final in 2006.

In 2006, McClaren was appointed England manager, succeeding Sven-Goran Eriksson, but was dismissed after the national team failed to qualify for Euro 2008. He returned to Manchester United in May 2022 as part of Erik ten Hag's coaching staff.

Ten Hag praised McClaren's contributions, stating he had been "an invaluable source of support and advice." He noted, "Steve and I have been friends for 16 years since we first worked together at FC Twente, and that relationship will continue as he embarks on this next challenge, as will his bond with Manchester United."

Before rejoining United, McClaren had previously worked with Jamaica in a technical advisory role at FIFA, where he recognized the potential of Jamaican football. "I quickly came to realise the potential the country possessed," he stated. "In the years since, that potential has grown significantly, and there is every reason to believe that with continued hard work and development, a bright future lies ahead."

McClaren is set to oversee the return of United's international players to pre-season training before officially departing the club following their tour of the United States. He expressed gratitude, saying, "I wish to say a huge thank you to everyone at Manchester United for their friendship, help, and support during the past two years."