Graham Potter closes on new job with World Cup challenge laid down to ex-West Ham boss

Graham Potter has not found success in roles at West Ham United and Chelsea, and the coach is set to try something new in his next role as he targets World Cup qualification

Graham Potter is set to become Sweden’s head coach as he makes a swift return to management. The 50-year-old was sacked by West Ham less than a month ago, but now will make his first foray into international football.

The ex-Chelsea boss is to take the hot seat on a short-term basis amid Sweden’s faltering attempts at World Cup qualification. Jon Dahl Tomasson was sacked by the nation after losing to Kosovo, leaving Sweden unable to qualify automatically from Group B.

Potter’s task will be to reinvigorate the likes of Alexander Isak and Viktor Gyokeres as they attempt to catch Kosovo in second place. Winless Sweden have just one point from their first four matches and need wins over Switzerland and Slovenia to stand a chance.

However, they can still reach the play-offs without finishing in second spot after topping their 2024/25 Nations League group. Nevertheless, Sweden chiefs will hope Potter can spark the team into life.

The former Brighton coach did not see much in the way of success during his time in the Premier League this season. Potter recorded five losses in six games to leave West Ham in the relegation zone and won just six of 23 matches overall in his spell with the Irons.

Potter has previously lived in Sweden and built a stellar coaching reputation while working in the country. The former full-back took Ostersund from the fourth tier of Swedish football to the top-flight and even beat Arsenal in the Europa League.

Speaking to Swedish media outlet Fotbollskanalen, Potter admitted he’d be interested in taking on the newly available international role. “I’m actually in Sweden right now, in my house in Sweden,” he said.

“I’m between jobs and just left the Premier League. I’m open to anything, really, where I feel I can help. The job as head coach of the Swedish national team is fantastic.

“I have feelings for Sweden. I love the country and I love Swedish football. I have a lot to be grateful for towards Swedish football. So yes, it would be a fantastic opportunity for me, obviously.”

Discussing where his next role could land him, Potter added: “I have accumulated a lot of experience so far and I’m very grateful for the career I have had so far.

“But I’m only 50 years old and I still have a lot to offer. It’s not about me finding a job at a specific level, but about wanting to find something where I feel I can help and where I can make a difference. I also want to feel that we [those involved] are on the same line. Those are my criteria.”

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