The Scottish Football Association is facing a fierce backlash as under-pressure coach Scot Gemmill continues in his role, despite presiding over what is statistically the worst competitive record for a Scotland Under-21s manager in history.
An exclusive investigation by the Daily Mail reveals the shocking depth of the team's failures under Gemmill's seven-year tenure. The young Scots have managed a paltry six victories from 28 competitive European Championship qualifiers.
This miserable win rate of just 21.4% is the lowest of any permanent manager in the age group's history, a damning indictment of his leadership. The team's hopes for the 2025 Euros in Slovakia are already in tatters after a disastrous start to the latest campaign.
Bulletproof Amidst the Chaos
Despite the abysmal results and growing discontent from fans and former players, Gemmill's position appears curiously secure. His continued employment is a source of major frustration within the Scottish game, with many questioning what it will take for the SFA to act.
The situation is exacerbated by the fact that his current contract is believed to run until 2025, potentially insulating him from the consequences of his team's performance. This has led to accusations that he is 'bulletproof' and immune to the accountability that would be standard in any other football nation.
A Famous Name, A Failing Record
As the son of Scottish football legend Archie Gemmill, whose famous goal against Holland in 1978 is etched into national folklore, the U21 boss carries a weighty surname. However, his own legacy is being defined by failure on the touchline.
Former internationals are now speaking out, demanding change. "It's not good enough," one former star told the Daily Mail. "The record is terrible. We are going backwards. We need a fresh voice, fresh ideas, and someone who can actually develop these players for the full national team."
The poor results are seen as a critical failure in the player development pathway, ultimately letting down the senior squad managed by Steve Clarke by not producing enough quality, battle-hardened youngsters ready for the step up.
What Next for Scottish Football?
The SFA now faces a pivotal decision. Does it stick with a failing project out of a sense of loyalty or financial constraint, or does it heed the calls for a new direction? The future of Scotland's next generation of footballing talent may depend on the answer.
