The future of Steve Clarke as Scotland manager beyond the 2026 World Cup remains an open question, casting a fascinating shadow over the potential succession plan for the national team. With Clarke's current contract set to expire after the tournament in North America, speculation is rife, and one name stands out as a prime candidate: Derek McInnes, provided he can achieve a historic feat with Heart of Midlothian.
The Clarke Conundrum and a Potential Vacancy
While Steve Clarke recently hinted he might be open to extending his stay until the 2028 European Championship, his position is not guaranteed. The 62-year-old's decision is likely to hinge on Scotland's performance in a tough World Cup group against Haiti, Morocco, and Brazil. Furthermore, a successful campaign could even tempt Clarke with a final foray into club management before retirement, potentially creating a vacancy for the Scotland job.
This uncertainty sets the stage for a compelling 'what if' scenario centred on Derek McInnes's work at Tynecastle. Should McInnes guide Hearts to the Scottish Premiership title this season, ending the Old Firm's dominance, he would instantly become the overwhelming favourite to succeed Clarke, whenever that role becomes available.
McInnes: The Standout Candidate in Waiting
The Hearts job is one McInnes has long desired, and he is deeply invested in the club's ambitious project under owner Tony Bloom, which involves European football and a data-driven recruitment model via Jamestown Analytics. However, the Scotland role is also a coveted position for him. Leading Hearts to the title would be a transformative achievement on his CV, proving his ability to organise a team to consistently punch above its weight.
Such a triumph would make a compelling case to the Scottish Football Association (SFA). It would demonstrate the tactical acumen and winning mentality required for the international stage. The potential availability of high-calibre wingers like Harvey Barnes and Ben Doak for Scotland in the future could also align perfectly with McInnes's preferred style of play.
Hearts' Title Charge: More Than Just a Pipe Dream
This is not mere fantasy. Hearts have built a six-point lead at the top of the table and have already proven they can beat the best, having secured victories at both Ibrox and Parkhead this season. A crucial clash with Rangers at Tynecastle presents another opportunity to solidify their credentials.
As former Hearts manager Craig Levein noted, the current squad possesses genuinely exciting talent. Cult hero Claudio Braga, game-changer Alexandros Kyziridis, and proven scorer Lawrence Shankland are players who can ignite matches. This firepower has given them an edge in a season where Celtic and Rangers have shown vulnerability.
While the Old Firm will have more financial muscle in the January transfer window, Hearts have already laid a formidable foundation. McInnes has the Maroon machine rolling, and sustaining this momentum over the next five months could make history in Gorgie.
Conclusion: A Career-Defining Crossroads
The situation is a web of hypotheticals, but the logic is clear. For Steve Clarke, the World Cup will dictate his next move. For Derek McInnes, the next five months with Hearts could redefine his managerial trajectory. Winning the Premiership would not only be a monumental achievement for Hearts but would also force a serious conversation between the SFA, McInnes, and Hearts about the national team's future.
Whether McInnes would choose to leave a thriving project at Tynecastle for the Scotland job is unclear. However, by delivering an unexpected league title, he would position himself as the standout candidate, turning a long-held ambition into a very tangible possibility. The incentive for McInnes to create history has never been greater.
